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 Obviously there is a spectrum to this response but the same pathway is instigated. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025 That instigated his resignation. Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 16 Sep. 2025 Bolsonaro faced five total charges, including attempting to overthrow Brazil's democratic system, participation in an armed criminal organization, and instigating violence that threatened state assets and heritage sites. Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025 But instigated by the Saugus student section, Staub flipped the script that night in a 43-6 beatdown. Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 11 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for instigate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for instigate
Verb
  • One student told detectives that Clarke provoked the situation by making disparaging remarks at him.
    Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 24 Sep. 2025
  • The rapper’s willingness to provoke, which often came bundled in a conversation about mental health, catapulted him to the top of pop culture and later, knocked him off the apex.
    Matt Donnelly, Variety, 22 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The resort's Star Camp kids club encourages youngsters to be stewards of the land and sea, emphasizing sustainable initiatives such as recycling and ocean ecology.
    Allison Tibaldi, USA Today, 27 Sep. 2025
  • In honor of their service and selfness, Hobbs has ordered all state buildings to be at half-staff the days of their burials and encourages individuals, organizations and businesses to participate in the tribute.
    Paige Moore, AZCentral.com, 26 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • In past years, the event has served as a platform for Beijing to promote its national security agenda.
    Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Across the Oscars, the BAFTAs, and the SAG awards, glitzy galas, and glam expeditions to Paris to promote The Substance, Moore and her stylist Brad Goreski delighted in gold and sparkles.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 24 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • And that will stimulate some new growth.
    Steve Bender, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2025
  • This influx is stimulating employment, raising consumption and gradually transforming western China into a new highland for fashion and lifestyle brands.
    Li Jun, Footwear News, 26 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Instigate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instigate. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on instigate

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