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Instigating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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instigating

[ษชnหˆstษชษกeษชtษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

behavior

to provoke or incite someone to do something, especially something bad or illegal

Synonyms

encourage, incite, provoke.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
instigating

Used when someone initiates or causes an event or action, typically one that is unwelcome or controversial. Often carries a negative connotation.

  • She was accused of instigating the fight
  • He instigated the protest
incite

Usually refers to stirring up or urging people to act in a way that is often violent or illegal. Has a negative implication.

  • The leader was arrested for inciting the crowd to riot
  • His speech incited fear among the residents
provoke

Used when someone causes a reaction, especially an emotional one, intentionally or unintentionally. Often used with a negative connotation.

  • His rude comments provoked anger among his coworkers
  • The dog's barking provoked the cat
encourage

Appropriate for expressing support, motivation, or a positive boost to someone or something.

  • Her parents always encourage her to pursue her dreams
  • The teacher encouraged the students to ask questions

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of instigating the riot.
  • She denied instigating the conflict.
Context #2 | Verb

legal

to encourage or stir up illegal activity or violent behavior

Synonyms

encourage, incite, provoke.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
incite

When describing the action of stirring up or provoking someone to do something violent or unlawful. This word typically carries a negative connotation.

  • The leader's speech incited the crowd to riot.
  • He was accused of inciting violence at the protest.
provoke

Used when an action or speech causes someone to react strongly or angrily. This word can be negative or neutral depending on context.

  • His teasing provoked her to tears.
  • The dog's continuous barking provoked complaints from the neighbors.
encourage

When you want to motivate or give support to someone in a positive way.

  • She encouraged him to follow his dreams.
  • The teacher encouraged the students to ask more questions.

Examples of usage

  • The defendant was charged with instigating a rebellion.
  • The group was accused of instigating violence at the protest.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'instigating'

The word 'instigating' originates from the Latin word 'instigatus', which means 'incited'. The term has evolved over time to refer to provoking or inciting someone to engage in certain actions, especially negative or illegal ones.

See also: instigate, instigation, instigator.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,437, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.