Instill Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฑ
instill
[ษชnหstษชl ]
Definitions
teaching
Gradually but firmly establish (an idea or attitude, especially a desirable one) in a person's mind.
Synonyms
impart, implant, infuse, ingrain.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| instill |
Use when you want to describe gradually introducing an idea or feeling into someone's mind over time.
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| infuse |
Applicable when you want to describe introducing a quality, feeling, or new element into something or someone, often in a way that transforms it.
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| implant |
Adopt this word to describe putting an idea or belief firmly in someone's mind, often with a sense of permanence.
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| ingrain |
Best used to indicate that something has become deeply and firmly established in someone's mind or character.
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| impart |
Suitable for conveying information, knowledge, or wisdom to someone directly.
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Examples of usage
- He sought to instill good manners in them.
- The teachers instilled a love of learning in their students.
- She worked hard to instill a sense of responsibility in her children.
fear
Gradually but firmly establish (a feeling of fear or anxiety) in a person's mind.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| instill |
Best used when referring to gradually introducing an idea, feeling, or quality into someone's mind over time. Often used in educational or moral contexts.
|
| imbue |
Appropriate when you want to describe spreading a particular quality or feeling throughout something or someone in a more pervasive manner.
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| induce |
Used when you want to encourage or bring about a particular state or condition. Often has a slightly more direct or forceful connotation than 'instill' and can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
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| inoculate |
Primarily used in medical contexts to describe the act of introducing a vaccine into the body to induce immunity. Figuratively, it can mean protecting against negative influences.
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Examples of usage
- The horror movie instilled a sense of dread in the audience.
- The traumatic experience instilled a deep fear in her.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- Effective teaching often involves instilling values such as respect and responsibility in students over time.
- Techniques like storytelling or consistent reinforcement can help educators instill important concepts in learners.
- Instilling a love for reading in young children can lead to lifelong habits and a better understanding of language.
Psychology
- Psychological theories, such as behaviorism, emphasize the importance of instilling positive behaviors through reinforcement.
- Instilling confidence in individuals can significantly impact their mental health and ability to face challenges.
- Trauma can occur when negative beliefs are instilled in a person, affecting their self-esteem and perception of the world.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have unique methods for instilling values in children, often through communal storytelling and traditions.
- In many societies, instilling resilience and grit is considered essential for personal success and dealing with life's challenges.
- Religious education often seeks to instill moral values and beliefs in followers from a young age.
Literature
- Authors often depict characters who are shaped by the values instilled in them by family and society, impacting their choices and growth.
- Classic literature frequently explores themes of instilling wisdom through mentorship, where older characters guide the younger ones.
- Proverbs and sayings in literature commonly emphasize the importance of instilling good morals and ethics in future generations.
Origin of 'instill'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'instillare', meaning 'to drip in', which suggests a slow, careful process of teaching.
- It first appeared in English in the late 16th century, representing the idea of inserting thoughts gently into someoneโs mind.
- Related terms include 'instillation', often used in education to describe teaching methods that build understanding gradually.
The word 'instill' originated from the Latin word 'instillare', which means 'to drop in' or 'to pour in'. It first appeared in English in the early 16th century. The concept of instilling ideas or attitudes gradually has been a key aspect of education and personal development throughout history.