Fomentar

To *fomentar* means to instigate, provoke, or incite something undesirable, typically trouble, discord, or rebellion. It involves actively stirring up or encouraging negative emotions, actions, or conflicts, often with the intention of causing unrest or disruption. The term carries a negative connotation, implying a deliberate attempt to create a harmful or unwelcome situation. The goal of someone who *fomenta* is usually to worsen an issue, push an organization to violence, cause internal strife or even cause someone to become paranoid.

Fomentar meaning with examples

• The political group was accused of fomentar unrest by spreading false information about the government. Their social media campaigns aimed to provoke public outrage and destabilize the existing order. This manipulative tactic sought to turn public opinion against officials and fuel resentment.
• The radical activist attempted to fomentar a revolution by organizing protests and using inflammatory rhetoric. His actions, including rallies and incendiary speeches, incited violence. His goal was to overthrow the authorities, and his approach was divisive and harmful to society.
• The jealous employee tried to fomentar conflict within the team by spreading rumors and gossip about his colleagues. This created a hostile work environment, damaged morale, and hindered productivity. His aim was to undermine his coworkers to improve his situation at the expense of others.
• The agitator tried to fomentar ethnic tensions through hateful propaganda. Their words and actions were designed to provoke violence and hatred between groups and were very effective. Their manipulation was based on sowing division and encouraging prejudice, with the intention of damaging society.