instigate

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "instigate" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to encourage or provoke someone to do something, usually something wrong or aggressive. For example, "The salesman's promise of a free gift instigated the customer to purchase the more expensive item."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If Cameron was hoping for support at the Helsinki conference, known as the Northern Future Forum, for his bid to curb immigration and instigate broader EU reforms before a possible UK referendum on membership, he would have been disappointed.

The Guardian

Somebody needs to instigate proper in-depth research, gathering information across the industry, so we can get to the heart of the matter.

The Guardian

Hope and Von Badlo will be sentenced on 16 January and the FCA said it will instigate confiscation proceedings against both defendants.

The Guardian - Business

But it has also attracted criticism: there are questions about the charity's funding, its targeting of US leaders instead of African leaders to instigate change, and accusations that it is failing to criticise the Ugandan government, with its poor human rights record.

The Guardian

This would further alienate the already fragile trust of opposition groups and instigate a dangerous collapse of civil society.

The Guardian - Opinion

The FBI are currently monitoring the SIU investigation and the Franklin County coroner has pledged to instigate an inquest into the death after the SIU has concluded, meaning evidence will be seen by a jury of six who will make a non-binding decision on the lawfulness of the killing.

The Guardian

One reason is that there is not necessarily the institutional capacity in Mumbai to instigate innovative approaches to transport planning.

The Guardian

Crump said Zambrano-Montes's family would be calling on the federal Justice Department to instigate a "complete and thorough" investigation into the case.

The Guardian

Now it could instigate a big revolt of backbenchers.

The Economist

Mr Kenyatta denies that he helped instigate the violence.

The Economist

Possibly the most daunting combination was attempted by David Cameron namely to instigate sweeping structural adjustments, at the same time as austerity required efficiency savings of £20 billion over four year form 2001-2015 to secure the same level of coverage for an ageing population.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instigate" when you want to emphasize the act of initiating or provoking a specific action, often with negative implications or consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "instigate" when a neutral term like "initiate" or "begin" would be more appropriate. "Instigate" often carries a negative connotation, implying that the action being started is undesirable or problematic.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "instigate" is as a transitive verb. It requires a direct object, indicating what is being started or provoked. Ludwig's examples demonstrate this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instigate" is a transitive verb used to describe initiating or provoking an action, often with negative implications. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage across various contexts like News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science. While interchangeable with words like "provoke" or "initiate", "instigate" carries a nuance of something controversial or problematic being set in motion. It's important to consider the specific context to avoid overusing it in neutral situations, and this guide offers tips and examples to help ensure accurate and effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

incite

Similar to "instigate" but often implies urging someone to do something unlawful or violent.

provoke

Implies a stronger reaction and potential negative consequence compared to "instigate".

initiate

Focuses on the beginning or starting point of an action, often in a neutral or positive way, unlike the potentially negative connotation of "instigate".

trigger

Suggests a rapid or sudden commencement, implying that something was waiting to be activated.

stir up

Implies creating trouble or excitement, often in a disruptive way.

spark

Conveys a sense of setting off something, often an idea or movement, implying a lighter touch than "instigate".

foment

Specifically refers to stirring up trouble or rebellion, carrying a more negative connotation than "instigate".

set off

Indicates causing something to begin, often suddenly or unexpectedly.

prompt

Suggests gently encouraging or reminding someone to do something.

cause to begin

A more formal and less direct way of saying "instigate", focusing on causation.

FAQs

How can I use "instigate" in a sentence?

You can use "instigate" to describe someone starting or provoking something, often with negative consequences. For example, "His comments were intended to "provoke" a fight, not "instigate" peace."

What are some alternatives to "instigate"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "initiate", "provoke", "incite", or "trigger". Choose the word that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "instigate" and "incite"?

"Instigate" generally means to initiate or provoke an action, while "incite" specifically implies urging someone to commit an unlawful or violent act. "Incite" has a stronger negative connotation.

When is it appropriate to use "instigate" instead of "start" or "begin"?

Use "instigate" when the action being started is controversial, problematic, or involves conflict. "Start" or "begin" are more neutral and suitable for initiating processes or projects without negative implications.