instigate a confrontation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instigate a confrontation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of provoking or initiating a conflict or dispute between parties. Example: "His comments were intended to instigate a confrontation with the opposing team during the match."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It is impossible to entirely eliminate the possibility that (elements of) the GOI, or the MEK, will instigate a confrontation in spite of our efforts.

The Guardian

But he said that officers had been purposely called to the area, on a false report of a firebomb having been thrown, by people aiming to instigate a confrontation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Over the weekend, I spoke to a couple of knowledgeable observers who both expressed the view that the European Union, and Germany in particular, had deliberately instigated a confrontation to bring about regime change in Athens.

The New Yorker

The woman refused to identify herself or give any callback numbers, but told the investigator that Mr. Zimmerman "has racist ideologies and that he is fully capable of instigating a confrontation that could have escalated to the point of Zimmerman having to use deadly force".

The New York Times

Guardiola, however, refused to criticise Agüero for the wild challenge on David Luiz that instigated a confrontation between the two sets of players and the City manager even made the astonishing claim that it was "not intentional" on the part of his striker.

The Guardian - Sport

The promised payoff –– one last meeting between Derek and his former gang –– is permanently interrupted after Danny is gunned down by a black classmate retaliating over a confrontation the former instigated at the start of the movie.

Vice

There was a confrontation.

The New York Times - Sports

A confrontation ensued.

The New York Times

"Some people want a confrontation.

The New Yorker

Hayes braced for a confrontation.

The New Yorker

A confrontation over the motorcycle.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instigate a confrontation" when you want to emphasize the deliberate act of starting or provoking a conflict or dispute. It implies intention and initiation of the confrontation.

Common error

Avoid using "instigate a confrontation" when you mean to describe someone actively participating in an ongoing conflict. Instigating implies starting the confrontation, not necessarily engaging in it directly afterward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instigate a confrontation" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the action of causing or initiating a conflict. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing actions that lead to conflict situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

22%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "instigate a confrontation" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, typically employed to describe the act of deliberately starting or provoking a conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in English writing. While "instigate a confrontation" is not exceedingly common, it finds its primary usage in news and media contexts, maintaining a relatively formal and objective tone. When using the phrase, ensure you are accurately portraying the action of initiating a conflict, distinguishing it from merely participating in one. Alternative phrases like "provoke a conflict" or "trigger a clash" may offer suitable variations depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provoke a conflict

Focuses on the act of provoking, suggesting a strong desire to elicit a response.

trigger a clash

Highlights the triggering event that leads to an abrupt and possibly violent encounter.

spark an altercation

Emphasizes the sudden ignition of a heated dispute or quarrel.

initiate hostilities

Draws attention to the formal or deliberate commencement of aggressive actions.

foment discord

Suggests the deliberate encouragement of disagreement and disharmony.

stir up trouble

Implies causing disturbance and provoking negative reactions.

incite a riot

Highlights the action of provoking a violent public disturbance.

fuel tensions

Focuses on intensifying existing strains or conflicts.

egg on a fight

Suggests encouraging or pushing someone into a physical fight.

prompt a showdown

Indicates causing a decisive confrontation or test of strength.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "instigate a confrontation"?

You can use alternatives such as "provoke a conflict", "trigger a clash", or "spark an altercation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to "instigate a confrontation"?

To "instigate a confrontation" means to initiate or provoke a conflict or dispute. It implies a deliberate action that leads to a clash between opposing parties.

Is "instigate a confrontation" a formal or informal expression?

"Instigate a confrontation" is a relatively formal expression that is suitable for use in news reports, academic writing, and professional communication. Less formal alternatives exist, such as "stir up trouble".

Which is more accurate: "instigate a confrontation" or "participate in a confrontation"?

The choice depends on the context. "Instigate a confrontation" refers to starting or provoking a conflict, while "participate in a confrontation" means to take part in an existing conflict. They are not interchangeable.