V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary
instigate
verb
Definition: to provoke, incite, or start something
Synonyms: generate, induce, prompt, influence, prod, provoke, incite, start
Antonyms: prevent, thwart, discourage
Tips: Instigate is derived from the Latin instigare, which means "urge on, incite." To instigate something means to urge it on or to incite some sort of action. Instigation is the act of urging on. An instigator is the person who instigates. Instigate is usually (but not always) a negative word used to describe a sinister action intended to provoke or generate a negative outcome. Instigate can also be a positive word when used to describe an attempt to create positive change in behavior or policy.
Usage Examples:
He admitted to instigating the fight. (provoking, starting)
The rebels tried to instigate a riot, but their plans were thwarted by the police. (induce, provoke)
Jay tried to instigate a more formal dress code in his office, but no one followed his lead. (influence, induce)
The hospital instigated wellness programs meant to help people improve their health. (generated, started)
Discover How You Can Improve Your
Vocabulary 10 to 100 Times Faster with
the Power Vocabulary Builder
Dear Friend,
The definition and lessons for the word instigate were made available by the Power Vocabulary Builder.
The Power Vocabulary Builder will help you develop a fuller, richer vocabulary 10 to 100 times faster than any other program available.
Visit the the Power Vocabulary Builder site right now to discover how you can get full access to this breakthrough program today!
igneous - Definition of igneous
palpitate - Definition of palpitate
suave - Definition of suave
disencumber - Definition of disencumber
regress - Definition of regress
