Select the appropriate option to fill in the blank:
The mob was _____________ to indulge in a series of acts of arson.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → instigated
Complete sentence: The mob was instigated to indulge in a series of acts of arson. A mob led into acts of arson (setting property on fire) was instigated.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) inspired | to fill someone with the wish to do something good or creative (it is used in a positive sense, not for crimes like arson) | The teacher inspired the students to work harder. |
| (2) instigated (answer) | to urge or provoke someone to do something wrong or violent | The leader was arrested for instigating the crowd to violence. |
| (3) motivated | to give someone a reason or the eagerness to act (it is neutral or positive and does not carry the sense of stirring people up to do wrong) | The coach motivated the players before the final. |
| (4) animated | lively and full of energy (it describes a manner, not provoking someone to act) | The discussion became animated. |
| Also asked in CUET (UG): instigate – 23-05-2025 Slot 2, 11-06-2023 Slot 1 |