instigation

Spark that starts

Instigation is the act of provoking or setting something in motion, usually something troublesome: At his instigation, the workers walked off the job.

The word typically implies that someone else carries out the action while the instigator plants the idea or applies pressure.

It often appears in the phrase at the instigation of.

incitement

agitation

Disturbed, restless state

fomentationStirring up trouble
rabble-rousingInciting mob sentiment
provocationAct that triggers response

goading · stirring · inflammation · encouragement · urging · prompting · spurring · rousing · exhortation · inducement

conspiracy

plot

Storyline or land parcel

schemeCalculated strategy, often secretive
collusionFraudulent secret cooperation
intrigueSecret plotting or fascination

machination · subversion · manipulation · cabal · complicity · orchestration · masterminding · behind-the-scenes · conniving · engineering

catalyst

trigger

What initiates action

sparkTiny fiery particle
impetusForce initiating action
stimulusWhat prompts a reaction

precipitant · cause · inducer · activator · flashpoint · tinderbox · fuse · detonator · origin · source

initiation

beginning

Initial stage of something

commencementAct of starting
inceptionFounding moment
launchSet into motion

inauguration · kickoff · onset · origination · introduction · starting · opening · activation · triggering · unleashing

instigation

agitation

plot

trigger

beginning

instigation

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