instigate
IN-stih-gayt
/ˈɪn.stɪ.ɡeɪt/
To initiate, provoke, or incite action, especially trouble, conflict, or rebellion.
Carries a strong negative connotation, implying that the instigator stays behind the scenes while others cause the disruption.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'instigare' ('to urge on, incite, or prick with a goad'), the word originally described prodding cattle with a sharp stick to force them into motion. It entered English in the 16th century to describe provoking human conflict.
Word relationships
- incite: Incite focuses on stirring up emotional anger, whereas instigate focuses on setting a process or conflict in motion.
- foment: Foment means to foster trouble over a long period, while instigate often refers to the initial spark.
- quell: To put an end to disorder or suppress rebellion.
- pacify: To bring calm and peace to an agitated situation.
Commonly confused with
- investigate: Investigate means to examine or research facts, whereas instigate means to provoke conflict or action.
Word family
- instigator (noun): A person who initiates or provokes trouble.
- instigation (noun): The act of initiating or provoking an action.
Collocations
- instigate rebellion
- instigate violence
- instigate unrest
- instigate an investigation
Example sentences
- "Covert agents were infiltrated across the border to instigate labor strikes and provoke civil unrest." Geopolitical conflict analysis
- "The prosecutor argued that although the defendant threw no physical punches, he worked actively to instigate the riot." Legal prosecution argument
Memory hook
INSTIGATE acts like a sharp STICK goading people into starting trouble. Spark or provoke conflict.
When not to use
Do not use for positive motivation like inspiring someone to create art (use 'inspire' or 'encourage' instead).
Fun facts
- The Latin root 'stigare' is closely related to 'stigma' (a mark pricked into skin) and 'stimulate'.
Related words
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