Synonym Chooser

How does the verb instigate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of instigate are abet, foment, and incite. While all these words mean "to spur to action," instigate definitely implies responsibility for initiating another's action and often connotes underhandedness or evil intention.

instigated a conspiracy

In what contexts can abet take the place of instigate?

In some situations, the words abet and instigate are roughly equivalent. However, abet implies both assisting and encouraging.

aiding and abetting the enemy

When is it sensible to use foment instead of instigate?

Although the words foment and instigate have much in common, foment implies persistence in goading.

fomenting rebellion

When would incite be a good substitute for instigate?

The meanings of incite and instigate largely overlap; however, incite stresses a stirring up and urging on, and may or may not imply initiating.

inciting a riot

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 instigate The school has agreed to take actions to ensure compliance with Title VI after Muslim and Jewish students were allegedly subjected to discriminatory comments and stereotypes between Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, instigating the war in Gaza, and last May. Lexi Lonas Cochran, The Hill, 9 Jan. 2025 The most prominent offshoot is that there is a chance of being able to instigate a chain reaction of intelligence. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025 Within days, former U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., then the House GOP’s leader, and U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., then the leader of Senate Republicans, blamed Trump for instigating the riot. Ronald J. Hansen, The Arizona Republic, 3 Jan. 2025 Civilians across Syria have taken to the streets to celebrate the fall of the family regime, which has governed the nation since the 1960s, and whose repressive policies helped instigate the 2011 uprising that plunged the country into civil war. Hannah Parry, Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for instigate 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for instigate
Verb
  • The new policies have created fears in the immigrant communities across the U.S., and provoked criticism from regional leaders who have long criticized the U.S. for sending back migrants, especially those accused of committing crimes in the U.S.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 11 Feb. 2025
  • But the bigger picture here is that media, entertainment and tech companies are facing a pivotal moment in the second Trump era, and many are choosing to try to placate the new administration rather than provoke more ire.
    Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 11 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • This can involve recognizing and celebrating individual and team achievements, encouraging open and honest feedback, and providing opportunities for team members to build personal connections.
    Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
  • However, the company has encouraged customers to take advantage of the clearance sales while stores remain open.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 6 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • She also was criticized for promoting her hair care brand during the press tour.
    Martha Ross, The Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2025
  • Since its inception, more than 1 million citations for a free DQ ice cream cone have been issued to youth, highlighting the program’s success in promoting helmet use and safety awareness among children.
    Julia Fomby, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Implement screen-free breaks Blue light from our phone screens stimulates the production of cortisol, a stress hormone, said Larry Rosen, professor emeritus at California State University at Dominguez Hills and co-author of numerous books on the psychology of technology.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Feb. 2025
  • Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists mimic the effects of a natural hormone that stimulates insulin production.
    Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 3 Feb. 2025

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Thesaurus Entries Near instigate

Cite this Entry

“Instigate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instigate. Accessed 18 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on instigate

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