What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
instigate
Example
The manager instigated the new project to increase sales. [instigated: past tense verb]
Example
He was known for instigating fights among his classmates. [instigating: gerund or present participle]
provoke
Example
She knew that her comments would provoke him into an argument. [provoke: verb]
Example
The movie provoked strong emotions in the audience. [provoked: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provoke is more commonly used than instigate in everyday language. Provoke is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while instigate is less common and often used in more formal or serious situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between instigate and provoke?
While instigate is typically associated with a formal or serious tone, provoke is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
