incite - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
incite Word Meanings
- to encourage or stir up action
- to provoke or instigate
- to motivate someone to act
incite Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
incite Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈsaɪt/
US
/ɪnˈsaɪt/
incite Word Etymology
in- = into + cite = call/bring; Latin 'incitare' meaning to 'urge on' derives from 'in' and 'citare'; Imagine someone prompting a group, getting them hyped up to take action.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Incite is a transitive verb meaning to encourage or stir up action, especially in others. It can refer to provoking a group to behave in a certain way, sometimes toward wrongdoing, or to prompting someone to take a bold or risky step. The sense usually carries a negative or inflammatory tone, often connected to crime, violence, or unrest. In legal contexts, incitement is a charge when someone deliberately urges others to commit illegal acts. Common collocations include incite violence, incite fear, incite a crowd, or incite a rebellion. The noun form is incitement; you might speak of instigators who incite others.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use with people or groups, not objects. 2) Often about negative outcomes. 3) Distinguish from excite or encourage. 4) Legal usage focuses on intent and actions. 5) Pair with nouns like violence, fear, or a riot.
Common Misconceptions
- Not a positive or neutral word; it implies harmful intent.
- Often confused with 'inspire' or 'motivate' but with a push toward wrongdoing.
- Cannot be used for minor or everyday actions.
- Typically used with negative nouns like violence or hatred.
- Often discussed in legal or political contexts.
Thinking Differences
Think how English speakers hear incite as a strong, negative push toward action, often illegal. Learners may overgeneralize to any encouragement or hard sell and miss the legal/ethical weight of the term.
Learning Tips
- Practice collocations: incite violence, incite fear, incite a crowd, incitement as a noun.
- Note the strong, negative connotation and legal usage.
- Compare with synonyms: urge (less forceful), provoke (situational), inspire (positive).
- Watch for verbs that imply intention and wrongdoing.
- Use in formal or journalistic contexts to discuss wrongdoing.
- Pay attention to the object: usually people or groups, not things.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'incite'?
A.Urge or stir into action
B.Make peace with
C.Cause to feel happy
D.Ignore completely
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'incite' used correctly?
A.She incited the fire with water.
B.The teacher incited the students to study harder.
C.They incited to go to the party.
D.His peaceful words incited a riot.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'incite'?
A.Encourage
B.Deter
C.Calm
D.Quell
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'incite'?
A.Inhibit
B.Stimulate
C.Spur
D.Elicit
Step 5: Mastery
How might a political leader 'incite' a group of people?
A.By promoting harmony and unity
B.By encouraging a peaceful protest
C.By making aggressive statements that provoke anger
D.By fostering understanding and tolerance
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