verb

incite

/ɪnˈsaɪt/ · say it: in·SYTE

to stir up or provoke

In Actions & Behavior

In more detail

1. (verb) to encourage or urge someone to do something, especially something violent or illegal

2. (verb) to cause or stir up a feeling or action

Examples

1. The speaker's words incited the crowd to riot.
2. The unfair decision incited anger among the fans.

How to use incite

Incite typically carries a negative or legally fraught connotation, implying deliberate urging toward harmful, violent, or illegal action, or stirring up intense emotions like hatred or fear. It is more forceful and culpable than mere 'encourage' and is commonly used in legal, political, and serious contexts. The second meaning emphasizes causing something to happen or flourish.

Common phrases

incite violence
incite a riot
incite rebellion
incite someone to action
incite fear
incite hatred

Synonyms

provoke · instigate · encourage · stir up · prompt

Opposites

discourage · dissuade · deter

Word family

incitement (noun) · inciting (adjective) · inciter (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 'incite' (to urge someone to do something harmful) with 'insight' (understanding or perception), or use it too lightly for simple encouragement without the negative implication.

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