incited public

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "incited public" is not correct as it stands and lacks clarity in written English.
It may be used in contexts discussing actions that provoke or stir public sentiment or reaction, but it typically requires additional context or modification for clarity. Example: "The controversial speech incited public outrage over the proposed policy changes."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Malaysia's government incited public anger on June 4 when it raised gasoline prices by 40percentt.

The New York Times

Later, at the turn of the last century, he said, bidets installed in an upscale Manhattan hotel incited public protest, resulting in their removal.

The New York Times

He further incited public outrage when a video surfaced of him twisting off a doll's head and saying, "Oops, I think I killed her".

The New York Times

The country's descent into a crippling recession has incited public anger against a political and business elite widely viewed as privileged and corrupt, prompting prosecutors to step up investigations into corruption cases.

The New York Times

Leonid N. Dobrokhotov, an adviser to Mr. Zyuganov, said the Communists were positioned to gain support even before the elections incited public anger, because of United Russia's steadily declining popularity.

The New York Times

But the killing incited public passions, because Mr. Dorismond, an off-duty private security guard, was the fourth unarmed black man in 13 months to be die at the hands of the New York City police.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Mr. Erdogan was arrested and convicted of "inciting public enmity and hatred".

The New York Times

Tax increases do not have a significant effect on the likelihood of unrest, however, which suggests that distributional issues play a role in inciting public ire.

The Economist

Mr. Mwonzora was handcuffed, shackled and clothed in prison-issue khaki short pants (no underwear allowed), facing a charge, which he denied, of inciting public violence.

The New York Times

It renews the government's powers to issue and revoke publishing licences and includes strict rules on obscenity, inciting public disorder, and so on.The MPC cried foul.

The Economist

William Pierce Dr Pierce, a former American Nazi party officer and a leader of the far right National Alliance, was banned from the UK for fear his views could incite public disorder.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For clarity, it's best to use stronger verbs like "provoked", "sparked", or "fueled" in place of "incited" to better convey the instigation of a public response. "The speech provoked public outrage" is clearer than "The speech incited public outrage".

Common error

Avoid using "incited" when a milder verb like "prompted" or "inspired" is more appropriate. "Incited" often carries a connotation of stirring up negative or aggressive reactions, so choose your words carefully to accurately reflect the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "incited public" functions as a verb followed by a noun, but its usage is awkward and less effective than alternatives. As noted by Ludwig AI, it lacks clarity and requires modification for better communication. The examples show varied contexts, but a clearer verb choice is often preferred.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "incited public" is occasionally used, it is generally considered grammatically weak and lacks clarity. As Ludwig AI suggests, more direct and common alternatives such as "provoked public outcry" or "sparked public debate" are preferred. Usage is primarily found in news and media contexts, but even there, stronger verb choices enhance the writing. When clarity and impact are key, avoid this phrasing and opt for more precise and effective language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provoked public outcry

Focuses on the negative reaction from the public as a result of the action.

sparked public debate

Highlights the initiation of discussion and differing opinions among the public.

triggered public reaction

Emphasizes a swift and direct response from the public following an event.

fueled public anger

Stresses the intensification of existing anger within the public sphere.

galvanized public support

Signifies the mobilization of public endorsement for a particular cause or action.

stirred public sentiment

Implies a broader, more emotional effect on the public mood or feelings.

generated public interest

Emphasizes the creation of curiosity and attention among the public.

prompted public concern

Highlights the cause of worry and apprehension within the public.

ignited public passion

Suggests a strong, fervent emotional response from the public.

whipped up public frenzy

Conveys the idea of creating a state of intense excitement or agitation among the public.

FAQs

What's a better way to say "incited public"?

Consider alternatives like "provoked public outcry", "sparked public debate", or "triggered public reaction" for clarity and impact. The best choice depends on the specific context and the intended nuance.

How can I use "incited" correctly in a sentence?

While "incited public" is awkward, "incited public outrage" is better. Ensure the sentence clearly specifies what was incited and the object of that incitement. Example: "The policy incited public outrage over environmental concerns."

What is the difference between "incited public" and "incited a public"?

"Incited public" is grammatically weak. "Incited a public" is not common, but it might refer to creating a specific audience or interest, although it's still not a typical usage. Better phrasing is typically recommended.

Is "incited public" a formal or informal expression?

"Incited public" isn't strictly formal or informal but sounds unnatural in most contexts. Opt for clearer and more common alternatives in both formal and informal writing.