instil

USAGE SUMMARY

'instil' is a correct word in written English.
This verb has two common meanings. The first is to introduce something gradually into the mind of another, such as knowledge or beliefs. For example, you could say, "The teacher was determined to instil a love of literature in his students." The second meaning is to put drops of a liquid into something. For example, you could say, "The nurse instilled the drops of medicine into the patient's eye."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A regeneration bid in the form of the 1991 World Student Games had been intended to shake a still-dazed Sheffield back into action, and instil a strong sporting culture in this region.

The Guardian

This is a public space, but the contemplative style and atmosphere seem to instil a reverence in visitors, who automatically refrain from walking on the gravel.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So, instead, we've decided to take this opportunity to instil a love of books in him.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The move is an attempt to instil confidence in the device with potential customers outside China who may never have heard of Xiaomi, clearly targeting a western audience.

The Guardian - Tech

The MDC has also accused the police of a round-the-clock heavy deployment and surveillance by armed police at its Harvest House headquarters in Harare, describing it as "a clear sign of provocation intended to intimidate, instil fear and subdue any dissension".

The Guardian

Instil a love of books in him, even though he's a child born in the year 2015 and the printed word will play such a massively reduced role in his life that we'd probably do just as well to instil him with a love of Tamagotchis or fax machines.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Moreover, the courts remain horribly corrupt.Family mattersIf regulators, courts and investors cannot instil new practices, South-East Asian businessmen are unlikely to adopt them voluntarily.

The Economist

Speaking anonymously, officials in the United States leaked news of Mr Guzmán's arrest before his Mexican captors had fully identified him, partly, it seems, to play up the role of their own agents.Third, Mr Guzmán's detention offers Mexico a chance to instil confidence in its wider criminal-justice system.

The Economist

Like bankers elsewhere, they have tried to instil better risk management and have reduced their dependence on corporate lending by pushing consumer finance, using all sorts of new products and marketing techniques.

The Economist

Despite this, and despite occupying the safest parliamentary seat in the country, today he sees more constituents than 63 other London MPs analysed in a study.System failuresIf surgeries instil confidence in parliamentarians, they cast a dim light on other British institutions.

The Economist

When they started beating up suspected rebels, Mr Koroma put on his uniform and shot dead two of his own men, to instil discipline.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "instil", ensure clarity regarding what is being instilled and in whom or what it is being instilled. For instance, "instil confidence in the team" is more effective than simply "instil confidence".

Common error

Avoid using "instil" when the intended meaning is merely 'to suggest' or 'to mention'. "Instilling" implies a deliberate and gradual process of imparting a value or belief, not just a fleeting reference.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "instil" is as a transitive verb. It requires a direct object, indicating what is being imparted or introduced gradually into someone or something. This aligns with Ludwig's analysis, confirming its active role in conveying the action of imparting values, beliefs, or qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instil" is a transitive verb commonly used to describe the gradual introduction of values, beliefs, or qualities. Its usage spans a range of contexts, from News & Media to Formal & Business settings, as analyzed by Ludwig. The term maintains a neutral register and conveys persuasive, informative, or motivational intentions. Ludwig AI confirms that "instil" is used correctly in written English with the goal to introduce something gradually into the mind of another, such as knowledge or beliefs. Remember to use "instil" when you want to express the deliberate and progressive imparting of something beneficial or necessary. Related phrases include "implant", "ingrain" and "inculcate", each with nuanced differences in emphasis and application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implant

Focuses on the firm establishment of something, often implying a more forceful or permanent placement.

ingrain

Emphasizes the deep-rooted nature of the instilled element, suggesting it becomes an integral part.

inculcate

Highlights the repetitive teaching or training involved in instilling a value or belief.

infuse

Suggests a gradual permeation or introduction of something, like a quality or characteristic.

foster

Implies nurturing and promoting the growth or development of something.

inculcate in

This alternative is more precise, emphasizing the act of teaching and impressing upon someone's mind through frequent instruction or repetition.

plant in

This alternative is more metaphorical and less commonly used. It emphasizes the act of introducing an idea or feeling.

impart

This alternative focuses on the act of sharing information or knowledge.

imbue

Suggests saturating something with a particular quality or feeling.

engender

Focuses on the creation or generation of a feeling, situation, or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "instil" in a sentence?

You can use "instil" to describe the act of gradually introducing an idea, feeling, or quality into someone's mind. For example, "The coach aimed to "instil discipline" in his players."

What are some alternatives to "instil"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "impart", "inculcate", or "foster" as alternatives to "instil".

What is the difference between "instil" and "inculcate"?

"Instil" generally means to gradually introduce or impart something, whereas "inculcate" specifically implies persistent teaching or repetition to impress something upon the mind.

Is it correct to say "instil a sense of"?

Yes, it is correct. "Instil a sense of" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to describe the act of creating or introducing a particular feeling or understanding, for example "instil a sense of duty".