incitement
in-SYT-muhnt
/ɪnˈsaɪtmənt/
The action of provoking unlawful behavior or urging someone to behave unlawfully.
Incitement implies actively stirring up or encouraging others to commit illegal acts, especially violence or public disorder. It's about the speech or action that directly leads to or intends to lead to crime.
The story behind the word. The word 'incitement' comes from the Latin verb 'incitare,' meaning 'to set in motion, to urge on, to rouse.' This Latin root combined 'in-' (into) with 'citare' (to put into rapid motion, to rouse). English adopted 'incite' in the 15th century, and 'incitement' followed, referring to the act of stirring up or provoking others, especially to illegal or violent actions. It has long been a crucial concept in legal systems dealing with public order.
Word relationships
- provocation: Provocation is an act that makes someone angry or annoyed, often leading them to react. Incitement is more direct and deliberate in urging unlawful action, often with a specific criminal outcome in mind.
- instigation: Very close in meaning; often interchangeable. Instigation can be slightly broader, referring to initiating any action, while incitement specifically implies urging unlawful behavior.
- deterrence: The action of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.
- pacification: The act of quelling anger, agitation, or excitement; bringing about peace.
Commonly confused with
- freedom of speech: Incitement is generally considered a limit on freedom of speech, as it involves speech that directly advocates for illegal acts and is likely to produce such action.
Word family
- incite (verb): to encourage or stir up (violent or unlawful behavior)
- inciter (noun): a person who incites others
Collocations
- incitement to violence
- incitement to riot
- charge of incitement
Example sentences
- "His fiery speech was deemed incitement, as it directly encouraged the crowd to march on the government building." The politician was accused of incitement to violence.
- "The court ruled that the defendant's online posts constituted incitement to racial hatred." Laws against incitement are crucial for maintaining public order.
Memory hook
To 'INCITE' a riot is to 'IN-SIGHT' the chaos, making it visible and real. In-sight chaos
When not to use
Do not use 'incitement' for general disagreement or strong opinions, even if controversial. It must involve a direct call or encouragement to illegal action.
Fun facts
- The legal standard for incitement in the United States (the 'Brandenburg test') requires that the speech be 'directed to inciting or producing imminent lawless action and is likely to incite or produce such action.'
- Incitement can occur through various mediums, including speeches, written words, and online posts.
Related words
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