Synonym Chooser

How does the verb foment contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of foment are abet, incite, and instigate. While all these words mean "to spur to action," foment implies persistence in goading.

fomenting rebellion

When would abet be a good substitute for foment?

The words abet and foment are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, abet implies both assisting and encouraging.

aiding and abetting the enemy

Where would incite be a reasonable alternative to foment?

The words incite and foment can be used in similar contexts, but incite stresses a stirring up and urging on, and may or may not imply initiating.

inciting a riot

When could instigate be used to replace foment?

The meanings of instigate and foment largely overlap; however, instigate definitely implies responsibility for initiating another's action and often connotes underhandedness or evil intention.

instigated a conspiracy

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of foment Over the past several days, statements from governments across Europe and the Middle East have been notably muted in their criticism of the actions Israel and the United States took to halt the regime’s capacity to foment instability. Dana Stroul, Foreign Affairs, 23 June 2025 Iran has additionally fomented open revolt against the Saudi monarchy. Graeme Wood, The Atlantic, 13 June 2025 What’s more, around three-quarters of respondents fear being targeted moving forward as adverse sentiments toward the automaker continue to foment. Jim Gorzelany, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025 Israel has deeply weakened Iran’s axis of non-state actors in the region, but Tehran retains the ability to foment militias to fight against American and Israeli troops and interests. Narges Bajoghli, Time, 19 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for foment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for foment
Verb
  • Under the supervision of experts, Paul provokes sharks to attack him in multiple scenarios.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
  • While not classified among the FDA's nine major allergens, sulfites can trigger severe reactions in sensitive individuals and may provoke asthma attacks in up to 10 percent of people with asthma.
    Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025
Verb
  • Benson Boone has spent 2025 promoting his new album American Heart, which debuted on the Billboard charts just a few weeks ago.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 12 July 2025
  • Investigators found no evidence of a client list or blackmail scheme involving prominent individuals, contradicting years of speculation and conspiracy theories that both Patel and Bongino had previously promoted.
    Adeola Adeosun Hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Foment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/foment. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

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