instigate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"We are against all scenarios that aim to instigate a civil war in Iran, that target ethnic or religious fault lines," Fidan told journalists in Istanbul.

From Barron's • Mar. 7, 2026

Meo co-owner Tannis Ling, who spent many weekends in Chinatown with her family as a child, has helped instigate Chinatown’s resurgence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 27, 2025

Please instigate a “no call zone” that covers the Dodger bullpen.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 20, 2025

Or to categorize things another way: Attempts to shame Fox inevitably failed while attempts to instigate mass actions against them were more successful, or at least were more likely to worry Fox.

From Slate • Sep. 18, 2024

To me, it seemed like she had just wanted to instigate something negative.

From "The Stars Beneath Our Feet" by David Barclay Moore