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Instigated: meaning, definitions and examples

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instigated

 

[ ˈɪn.stɪ.ɡeɪtɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

inciting action

Instigated is the past tense of instigate, which means to incite someone to do something, typically something bad or illegal. It suggests an initiation of action, often with a negative connotation. The term implies that someone encourages or provokes another person to engage in a particular behavior. This term can be commonly used in a legal or organizational context, highlighting the act of provoking an incident or conflict.

Synonyms

encouraged, incited, provoked

Examples of usage

  • He instigated the protest against the government's decision.
  • The rumor instigated a series of reactions among the community.
  • She was accused of instigating the brawl at the party.

Translations

Translations of the word "instigated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 instigado

🇮🇳 उकसाया हुआ

🇩🇪 angestiftet

🇮🇩 dihasut

🇺🇦 спровокований

🇵🇱 podżegany

🇯🇵 扇動された

🇫🇷 instigué

🇪🇸 instigado

🇹🇷 kışkırtılmış

🇰🇷 부추김을 받은

🇸🇦 مستفز

🇨🇿 podněcovaný

🇸🇰 podnecovaný

🇨🇳 煽动的

🇸🇮 spodbudil

🇮🇸 kveikt

🇰🇿 тудырылған

🇬🇪 შესაძლებლობა

🇦🇿 təşviq olunmuş

🇲🇽 instigado

Etymology

The word 'instigate' originates from the Latin word 'instigare', which means 'to urge on' or 'to incite'. The prefix 'in-' denotes 'in' or 'upon', while the root 'stigare' is derived from 'stigare', meaning 'to set in motion' or 'to prick'. This etymology suggests an action that provokes or stimulates a response. The term entered the English language in the late 15th century. Over time, 'instigate' has taken on a more negative connotation, often associated with stirring up trouble or inciting wrongdoing. Its usage in legal terms emphasizes the role of instigation in criminal responsibility, where someone may be held accountable for encouraging or triggering illicit actions. Today, 'instigate' is frequently used in discussions pertaining to social movements, political actions, and interpersonal dynamics.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,266, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.