Inflaming: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the act of causing strong feelings or reactions, often negative or intense. Common in medical or emotional contexts.

• His comments were inflaming the crowd
• The debate over the policy is inflaming public opinion

Often used in a negative context to describe urging or provoking someone to engage in dangerous, harmful, or unlawful behavior.

• The leader was accused of inciting violence
• His words were intended to incite a riot

Describes an action that deliberately causes a reaction, often something negative like anger or irritation. Can be used in a legal, emotional, or social context.

• His taunting remarks provoked a fight
• The news report provoked outrage among viewers

Usually has a negative connotation, referring to causing intense emotions, especially anger or hatred. Commonly used in both literal and figurative senses.

• Her hateful rhetoric inflamed the audience
• The inflammatory article inflamed public opinion

Applied when someone is making others feel anxious or upset, often deliberately causing unrest or disturbance.

• He was agitating the workers to strike
• The loud noises agitated the baby

Typically used to describe awakening interest, curiosity, or emotions. Can be neutral or positive, but sometimes has a negative connotation when stirring up anger or other strong emotions.

• The speech aroused enthusiasm among the listeners
• The discussion aroused his curiosity about the topic