# instigate

/ˈɪnstəˌɡeɪt/ (US) · /ˈɪnstɪɡˌeɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/instigate
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

to start a process, an event, or a conflict. You use this when someone takes the first action that leads to a bigger change or a fight.

For teachers: to set in motion or initiate a process, event, or conflict. Often implies a deliberate or provocative action that leads to a specific consequence.

## Examples

- The new law will instigate a major change in the industry.
- The manager's unfair treatment of the staff instigated a series of protests across the company.
- Historians argue that the disputed border treaty instigated a chain of diplomatic events that eventually led to the outbreak of the war.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.