instill mistrust

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instill mistrust" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of causing someone to have doubts or lack of trust in someone or something. Example: "The constant rumors and negative comments from the media can instill mistrust among the public regarding the government's intentions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And human rights abuses by security services that have "blanket immunity under the Emergency Decree continue to instill mistrust among the local population".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

American pressures are also likely to instill a mistrust and hostility toward the United States in the mind of Kim Jong-un, who is in his mid-20s and about whom little is known.

The New York Times

The law, Chief Villaseñor said, will instill "a level of mistrust" particularly in immigrant communities and break down years of efforts to combat the perception that the police collaborate with immigration agents.

The New York Times

Mistrust remained.

The New Yorker

They will instill fear.

The New York Times

Mistrust is widespread.

The New York Times

"We instill independence," she said.

The New York Times

The mistrust is mutual.

The New York Times

Fear and mistrust.

The New York Times

It creates mistrust".

Independent

To instill terror into kuffar.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instill mistrust" when you want to emphasize the act of deliberately causing someone to lose trust in something or someone. Be mindful of the context and ensure it aligns with the intention of creating this lack of trust.

Common error

Avoid using "instill mistrust" when a more neutral term like "create doubt" or "raise questions" would be more appropriate. "Instill mistrust" implies a deliberate negative action, so ensure the context warrants this strong connotation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instill mistrust" functions as a verb phrase where "instill" is the transitive verb and "mistrust" is the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "instill mistrust" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, though not particularly common. According to Ludwig, it correctly conveys the action of causing someone to develop feelings of distrust. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it describes the deliberate creation of doubt or suspicion. When using "instill mistrust", be aware of its negative connotation and use it when you specifically want to emphasize the act of creating a lack of trust. Alternatives such as "sow seeds of distrust" or "breed suspicion" can be considered depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause mistrust

This alternative is a more direct and literal way of saying the same thing.

sow seeds of distrust

This alternative uses a metaphorical expression, focusing on the gradual planting of distrust.

plant seeds of doubt

This alternative uses the same metaphorical construction, pointing to the introduction of uncertainty.

engender mistrust

This alternative is a more formal way of saying "cause mistrust".

breed suspicion

This alternative emphasizes the creation of a general atmosphere of suspicion.

foster distrust

This alternative suggests actively encouraging distrust to grow.

generate skepticism

This alternative highlights the creation of doubt and questioning.

arouse suspicion

This alternative focuses on the act of making someone feel suspicious.

provoke distrust

This alternative focuses on inciting a feeling of distrust.

create doubt

This alternative focuses on the act of making someone uncertain or unconvinced.

FAQs

How can I use "instill mistrust" in a sentence?

You can use "instill mistrust" to describe actions or events that cause people to lose faith or confidence in something. For example: "The government's lack of transparency can "instill mistrust" among citizens."

What are some synonyms for "instill mistrust"?

Alternatives to "instill mistrust" include "sow seeds of distrust", "breed suspicion", or "foster distrust", depending on the specific shade of meaning you intend to convey.

Is it better to say "instill mistrust" or "create mistrust"?

While both are correct, "instill mistrust" suggests a more deliberate and gradual process of causing mistrust, whereas "create mistrust" is more general. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "instill mistrust" and "instill fear"?

"Instill mistrust" refers to causing someone to lack trust or confidence, while "instill fear" refers to causing someone to feel afraid. The two phrases have distinct meanings and should be used accordingly.