The word “instill” refers to gradually introducing or implanting an idea, feeling, or quality into someone’s mind or character until it becomes part of them. The process of instilling often occurs over time, emphasizing persistence and care. For example, parents and educators work hard to instill values such as honesty, respect, and discipline in children, shaping their moral foundation. Similarly, a leader may instill a sense of confidence in their team, inspiring them to perform better. Teaching methods are designed to instill curiosity and critical thinking in students, encouraging lifelong learning. The term highlights not only the act of teaching but also the deep and lasting influence it creates. While instilling a positive habit or mindset strengthens individuals, negative influences can also be instilled, showing the dual nature of the concept. Whether applied to education, values, or motivation, instill conveys a deliberate, consistent effort to inspire or impart something that takes root and flourishes over time.
Sample Sentences
- Parents should strive to instill a sense of responsibility in their children.
- The coach worked hard to instill discipline and teamwork in the players.
- The program is designed to instill confidence in young entrepreneurs.
- Her kind words instilled hope in those who were struggling.
- Teachers aim to instill a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
- His experiences instilled in him a deep respect for cultural diversity.
- The training was meant to instill the importance of safety procedures.
- Good habits, such as punctuality, should be instilled at an early age.
- The speaker’s inspiring story instilled determination in the audience.
- Over the years, the organization has instilled a strong sense of loyalty in its employees.
Synonyms for “Instill”
- Implant
- Imbue
- Infuse
- Inculcate
- Teach
- Ingrain
- Introduce
- Foster
- Inject
- Inspire
Antonyms for “Instill”
- Remove
- Erase
- Expunge
- Withdraw
- Extract
- Eliminate
- Strip
- Deprive
- Dissuade
- Neglect
Related Words and Expressions
Related Words:
- Imbue
- Inculcate
- Implant
- Introduce
- Foster
- Educate
- Develop
- Embed
- Teach
- Nurture
Phrasal Verbs:
- Pass down (to instill values or traits from one generation to another)
- Build up (to gradually instill confidence or skills)
- Set in (to firmly establish a value or feeling over time)
- Drum into (to instill through persistent repetition)
- Bring about (to instill change or progress in someone)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Plant the seeds of (to instill an idea or habit that will grow over time)
- Hammer home (to emphasize or instill a point forcefully and repeatedly)
- Breathe life into (to instill energy, hope, or purpose)
- Leave a mark on (to instill something significant and lasting)
- Make it second nature (to instill a skill or habit so deeply that it becomes automatic)
