instigated

VERB

influence, provoke

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abet bring about foment incite inflame initiate kindle plot prompt spur whip up

STRONG

actuate encourage goad hint impel insinuate move needle persuade plan raise rouse scheme start stimulate suggest urge

WEAK

add fuel egg on fire up make waves put up to rabble-rouse set on steam up stir up turn on work up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deter discourage dissuade halt neglect put out stop

STRONG

calm conclude depress finish ignore repress suppress

WEAK

prevent

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.

She instigated the new restrictions, and rejects accusations of them being nanny state.

From BBC • May 3, 2026

At 4 Nations last February, the Americans traveled to Montreal, instigated three fights in the first nine seconds in front of a hostile crowd—and emerged victorious.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 21, 2026

The inquiry report said there was "general agreement" that Creative Scotland had provided "significant support" to the culture sector since it was instigated by the government in 2010.

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

His statements could have "inadvertently instigated or emboldened opportunistic armed groups that are seeking to exploit international narratives by attacking soft targets", Obasi said.

From Barron's • Nov. 24, 2025

“But Ms. Stanley, Tonesha instigated the whole thing,” Donna protests.

From "American Street" by Ibi Zoboi