# instilling

/ˌɪnˈstɪɫɪŋ/ (US) · /ɪnstˈɪlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/instilling
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

to put an idea, feeling, or habit into someone little by little over time. You do this by teaching or showing the same thing again and again.

For teachers: to gradually implant an attitude, value, or habit through repeated teaching or example. Takes an abstract object for the quality imparted and 'in' or 'into' for the recipient.

## Examples

- She is instilling good habits in her children.
- The coach is instilling confidence in the young players before the final match.
- By instilling curiosity rather than fear of mistakes, the teacher helped students who once avoided difficult problems learn to persist.

## Pitfalls

- Not "instilling discipline to children" but "instilling discipline in children" — Instil takes 'in' or 'into' for the recipient, not 'to'.

## Usage notes

- The verb takes an abstract direct object for the quality imparted and 'in' or 'into' for the recipient.

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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.