instigate
To cause or start something, often negative
Examples
In a meeting
“We need someone to instigate the conversation about policy changes.”
Over coffee
“Don't instigate drama by bringing up old arguments.”
Why this word
start
Start is neutral initiation, while instigate implies deliberately provoking or inciting action, often negative
cause
Cause is general and can be passive, while instigate emphasizes active, intentional provocation
begin
Begin is neutral, while instigate conveys deliberate stirring up or urging on, especially of conflict or controversy
Usage tip
Use when describing the start of actions or events; often implies provocation or stirring things up
Etymology
Latin: instigare (in- 'toward' + stigare 'to prick'), meaning to urge on
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Related words
prompt
To cause or encourage an action or response
ascribe
To attribute something to a particular cause or source
attribute
To identify something as being caused by or belonging to a particular source
precipitate
To cause something to happen suddenly or sooner than expected
provoke
To deliberately cause a reaction or response
precursor
Something that comes before and indicates what will follow