What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rioter
Example
The police arrested several rioters for vandalizing the store. [rioters: noun]
Example
He was charged with inciting a riot and encouraging others to join in the violence. [inciting: verb]
instigator
Example
The instigator of the fight was quickly identified and removed from the premises. [instigator: noun]
Example
She was accused of instigating the protest and encouraging others to break the law. [instigating: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rioter is more commonly used than instigator in everyday language, particularly in news reports and discussions of public disturbances. Instigator is less common but may be used in legal or formal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rioter and instigator?
Both rioter and instigator are generally informal words, but instigator may be used in more formal or legal contexts due to its implication of responsibility for the actions of others.
