stir up discontent

USAGE SUMMARY

"stir up discontent" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where someone is inciting dissatisfaction or unrest among a group of people. For example: "The politician's speech was designed to stir up discontent among the citizens." Alternative expressions include "foment unrest" and "incite dissatisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Analysts say that Chinese leaders have been caught off guard by what they view as an American campaign to stir up discontent in the region.

The New York Times

Most analysts think Russia does not want a Crimea-style annexation of eastern Ukraine, but merely to stir up discontent and disrupt elections at the end of May.

The Guardian

Mac and Jim mingle among the pickers, stir up discontent, and persuade a particularly mutinous worker London (Vincent D'Onofrio) to be the notional leader; a brutal confrontation ensues with the boss, Mr Bolton (Robert Duvall).

The Guardian - Film

Jeremy Corbyn has used his introductory speech to Labour conference to tell the British people they "never have to take what they are given", as he promised to stir up discontent across Britain against injustice and prejudice.

The Guardian

There can be no honest advertisement beyond the statment that such-and-such product is for sale at such-and-such price... Eaxh should carry a chemical analysis, a govement endorsement of purity, & a certificate of usefulness... .. Lord Calvert's ad seemed clearly calculated to stir up discontent in the multitudes for whom this nectar must forever remain an upper-class chimera.

The New Yorker

The authorities are fearful of the power of the internet to stir up discontent.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Ms. Taft said that the mayor had enthusiastically "stirred up discontent" every chance he had gotten.

The New York Times

The absence of protection had stirred up discontent, he said, and prompted a growing number of "mass incidents", or protests.

The Guardian

As emperor he stirred up discontent because he favoured the Monophysite heresy, which held that the human and divine elements in Christ's nature were inseparable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

My work has consisted of trying to stir up a divine discontent with wrong.

The Guardian

The government feared that the papal visit could stir up latent indigenous discontent, the priests said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stir up discontent" when you want to emphasize the active and intentional nature of creating dissatisfaction among a group of people.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "stir up discontent" can sound overly dramatic or informal in certain professional or academic settings. Consider more neutral alternatives like "generate concerns" or "raise questions" when a more objective tone is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stir up discontent" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of instigating or increasing dissatisfaction or unhappiness within a group. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English. It is most commonly found in News & Media.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

8%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stir up discontent" is a grammatically correct verb phrase that describes the action of instigating or increasing dissatisfaction. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usability, with examples primarily found in News & Media sources. While generally neutral in register, the phrase can carry negative connotations. Alternative phrases like "foment dissatisfaction" or "incite unrest" offer nuanced variations in meaning. When writing, consider the context to ensure the phrase aligns with the intended tone, avoiding overuse in overly formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foment dissatisfaction

Emphasizes the deliberate instigation of negative feelings.

incite unrest

Focuses on provoking disturbance and agitation.

provoke dissatisfaction

Highlights the act of triggering negative feelings.

spark dissent

Suggests initiating disagreement or opposition.

fuel resentment

Indicates adding to existing bitterness.

kindle animosity

Implies igniting hatred or hostility.

fan the flames of discontent

Metaphorically amplifies existing dissatisfaction.

generate dissatisfaction

Focuses on the creation of negative feelings.

awaken resentment

Highlights the act of bringing bitterness to the surface.

promote discord

Emphasizes the creation of conflict and disharmony.

FAQs

What does "stir up discontent" mean?

The phrase "stir up discontent" means to actively cause or increase feelings of dissatisfaction, unhappiness, or resentment among a group of people.

How can I use "stir up discontent" in a sentence?

You can use "stir up discontent" to describe actions that lead to unrest or dissatisfaction. For example: "The politician's inflammatory rhetoric aimed to "stir up discontent" among the working class."

What can I say instead of "stir up discontent"?

You can use alternatives like "foment dissatisfaction", "incite unrest", or "provoke dissatisfaction" depending on the context.

Is "stir up discontent" a negative expression?

Yes, "stir up discontent" generally has a negative connotation, as it implies causing trouble or unease. However, it can be used neutrally to describe a situation without necessarily assigning blame.