Instigate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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instigate
[หษชnstษชหษกeษชt ]
Definitions
to provoke conflict
Instigate means to provoke or incite someone to do something, especially something bad or violent. It is often used in the context of starting trouble or causing unrest.
Synonyms
incite, inflame, provoke, stir up.
Examples of usage
- The rival gangs were instigated to start a fight by outside agitators.
- The fake news article was designed to instigate fear and panic among the population.
to initiate action
Instigate can also mean to initiate or start an action or process. It can be used in a neutral or positive sense to indicate the beginning of something.
Synonyms
begin, commence, initiate, launch.
Examples of usage
- The new government plans to instigate reforms to improve the economy.
- The CEO instigated a company-wide initiative to promote diversity and inclusion.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that instigators often find themselves inadvertently increasing group conflict through their actions.
- People perceived as instigators may actually influence the dynamics of decision-making in groups by challenging the status quo.
Pop Culture
- In movies, instigators are often the characters who spark major conflicts, like antagonists who manipulate others for their gain.
- Songs and literature often depict instigators as both heroes and villains, showcasing their complex roles in driving a story forward.
Education
- In discussions about mediation and conflict resolution, understanding who instigates a conflict helps in finding effective solutions.
- Educators teach students about instigation in the context of bullying, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing those who provoke others.
History
- Instigation has played a critical role in historical events, where figures rallied people to revolt against oppressive regimes.
- The phrase 'instigating a revolt' is often used to describe political movements that begin with a few passionate advocates.
Origin of 'instigate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'instigare,' which means 'to goad, urge on,' reflecting its active sense of prompting action.
- The prefix 'in-' means 'into' or 'upon,' while 'stigare' comes from 'stigare,' meaning 'to prick,' hinting at provoking or pushing someone to act.
The word 'instigate' has Latin origins, coming from the Latin word 'instigare' meaning 'to urge on, incite'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'instigate' has come to be associated with provoking or initiating actions, often with negative connotations.
See also: instigating, instigation, instigator.