foment discord

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foment discord" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing actions or behaviors that intentionally stir up conflict or disagreement among individuals or groups. Example: "The politician's speech seemed designed to foment discord among the community, rather than promote unity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Without this vital ally, Tehran will find it more difficult to foment discord in the Arab world.

The New York Times

However, anti-evolutionists continue to foment discord at local levels, where opposition to the teaching of evolution can be presented without strong resistance.

Comptes Rendus Biologies

But Sabo, the self-described libertarian street artist who put up the posters, is hoping to foment discord among the Democrats.

The New York Times

Facebook's recent revelations that it sold thousands of ads to a Russian troll operation seeking to foment discord during last year's elections have led its executives to pledge cooperation with U.S. investigators.

The Washington Post

But in the run-up to the 2016 election, the site became a repository for thousands of political posts created by Russian operatives seeking to shape public opinion and foment discord in U.S. society, the company acknowledged Wednesday.

The Washington Post

To knowingly foment discord among races is a disgrace to our flag". News of the dramatic and tragic discovery spread as President Trump's former campaign chairman and personal attorney were convicted of crimes in federal court.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

He accused the great powers of "fomenting discord" so they can feed their arms industries.

The New York Times

At any rate, five of the new arrivals "were trouble from the start," constantly complaining and generally fomenting discord.

The New York Times - Books

Worse, the president and his allies had reached into people's spiritual lives, lecturing a conservative nation on belief while fomenting discord between Muslims and Christians, he said.

The New York Times

But of course we now know that even before the Federal Bureau of Investigation was tapping his telephones and fomenting discord, Muhammad really was being followed.

The New York Times - Books

Facebook's general counsel, Colin Stretch, testified that Russian activity had continued after the election "fomenting discord about the validity" of Trump's victory.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "foment discord", consider the intensity and potential consequences of the conflict being initiated. Choose this phrase when the intention or effect is to actively stir up trouble and division.

Common error

Avoid using "foment discord" when describing unintentional disagreements or natural conflicts. This phrase implies a deliberate effort to create trouble, so it's inappropriate for situations where discord arises organically.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "foment discord" is as a verb phrase, where "foment" acts as a transitive verb taking "discord" as its direct object. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and used to describe the act of instigating conflict.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "foment discord" is a grammatically correct and relatively uncommon expression used to describe the act of deliberately stirring up conflict or disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's often found in news and media contexts, and its use implies a deliberate intention to create trouble. While there are several alternative phrases, like "stir up conflict" or "incite division", "foment discord" carries a nuanced emphasis on the active initiation and aggravation of disputes. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to consider the potential consequences and the level of intent involved, ensuring it aligns with the context to accurately portray the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stir up conflict

Focuses on initiating or aggravating existing disputes.

incite division

Highlights the act of provoking separation and disagreement among people.

fuel controversy

Emphasizes intensifying existing debates or disputes.

spark unrest

Suggests initiating a state of disturbance or agitation.

promote disunity

Highlights the act of encouraging a lack of agreement and harmony.

breed animosity

Focuses on creating a feeling of strong dislike or hostility.

instigate strife

Emphasizes initiating a bitter disagreement or conflict.

provoke dissension

Suggests inciting disagreement or discontent.

exacerbate tensions

Highlights making existing strain or stress even worse.

aggravate disputes

Focuses on making existing arguments or disagreements more severe.

FAQs

How can I use "foment discord" in a sentence?

You can use "foment discord" to describe actions that deliberately stir up conflict. For example: "The politician's speech was designed to "foment discord" among different ethnic groups."

What are some alternatives to "foment discord"?

Alternatives include "stir up conflict", "incite division", or "fuel controversy". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "foment discord" a formal or informal expression?

"Foment discord" is generally considered a neutral to formal expression. It's suitable for news reports, academic papers, and professional discussions.

What is the difference between "foment discord" and "create harmony"?

"Foment discord" means to stir up disagreement and conflict, while "create harmony" implies bringing about agreement and peaceful relations. They are antonyms.