she started instigating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "she started instigating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who begins to provoke or incite a particular action or behavior in others. Example: "After observing the tension in the room, she started instigating a debate among the participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"She started instigating sex.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

She started".

The New York Times

She started painting buildings.

Independent

She started regularly meditating.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then she started running.

The New York Times - Magazine

She started dropping things.

The New York Times

Then she started catering.

The New York Times

She started a charity.

Independent

She started liquidating investments.

The New Yorker

She started crying.

The New Yorker

"She started it".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "she started instigating" when you want to emphasize the beginning of a series of actions aimed at provoking a response or situation. It suggests a deliberate act of initiating something, often with a specific goal in mind.

Common error

Avoid using "she started instigating" when a neutral or positive action is intended. This phrase carries a connotation of causing trouble or stirring up negative emotions. Use it carefully to ensure the intended meaning is clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "she started instigating" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the commencement of an action. The verb "started" is complemented by the gerund "instigating", creating a continuous aspect. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase describes someone beginning to provoke or incite.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "she started instigating" is a phrase used to describe the beginning of an action aimed at provoking or inciting a response. While grammatically correct, the phrase carries a negative connotation, suggesting the initiation of trouble or conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in describing the beginning of an action aimed at provoking. The phrase is relatively rare but appears in news and media, and scientific contexts, typically in a neutral register. When using this phrase, be mindful of its implications and consider alternative phrasing if a more neutral tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

she began to provoke

Replaces "started instigating" with a more direct synonym for inciting action.

she initiated the provocation

Emphasizes the act of initiation rather than the ongoing instigation.

she incited the unrest

Focuses on the result of the instigation, specifically unrest or trouble.

she stirred up trouble

Uses a more idiomatic expression to convey the act of causing problems.

she prompted the conflict

Highlights the role of prompting or encouraging conflict.

she triggered the dispute

Emphasizes the act of setting off a dispute or argument.

she fomented discord

Uses a more formal and negative term for stirring up trouble and disagreement.

she kindled the argument

Employs a metaphor of fire to suggest the beginning of an argument.

she set the stage for conflict

Focuses on the preparatory actions leading to conflict.

she was the origin of the conflict

Frames her as the source of dispute.

FAQs

How can I use "she started instigating" in a sentence?

You can use "she started instigating" to describe someone who begins to provoke or incite a specific action or behavior in others. For example: "After observing the tension in the room, "she started instigating" a debate among the participants."

What are some alternatives to "she started instigating"?

Alternatives include phrases like "she began provoking", "she initiated the provocation", or "she incited the unrest". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Using, e.g., "she stirred up trouble" focuses on the negative outcome of her actions.

Is "she started instigating" always negative?

Yes, "she started instigating" generally carries a negative connotation, implying the initiation of conflict, trouble, or unwanted behavior. If the intent is neutral, consider using phrases like "she initiated" or "she began" instead.

What's the difference between "she started instigating" and "she instigated"?

"She instigated" implies a completed action of instigation, whereas "she started instigating" emphasizes the beginning of the instigation, suggesting an ongoing or developing process. You would use, e.g., "she started instigating" when the action is not yet complete.