The word "instil" is spelled with the letters I-N-S-T-I-L, and it is pronounced /ɪnˈstɪl/. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word reveals that the first syllable is pronounced with the short 'i' sound, followed by the consonant cluster 'ns'. The second syllable is pronounced with the short 'i' sound, followed by the consonant 't' and the vowel 'i'. The spelling of "instil" is often confused with its American counterpart, "instill", which is spelled with two 'l's instead of one.
The verb "instil" (also spelled "instill") refers to the process of gradually and deliberately introducing or implanting something, typically ideas, knowledge, values, or habits, into a person or an entity. It involves imparting or infusing a particular mindset, belief, skill, or behavior in a systematic and persistent manner.
When one aims to instil something, they attempt to instigate a lasting change or influence on someone or something. This often requires patience, repetition, and consistency in order to ensure the desired effect is achieved. For instance, a teacher may seek to instil a love for learning in their students by creating an engaging and supportive learning environment, while a parent may strive to instil good manners in their children by modeling and consistently reinforcing polite behavior.
The act of instilling can take various forms, such as through direct communication, guidance, or leading by example. It can be employed in different contexts, including education, parenting, coaching, or mentoring. The goal of instilling is to deeply embed the desired quality, characteristic, or concept, enabling it to become a natural part of the individual or group's mindset or behavior.
The concept of instilling often implies a deliberate effort to positively shape and influence someone's attitudes or actions over time, with the aim of creating lasting change for the better.
To infuse slowly or by small quantities, as into the mind; to infuse by drops.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "instil" comes from the Latin word "instillare", which is a combination of two Latin roots: "in-" meaning "in" or "into", and "stillare" meaning "to drop". The literal translation of "instillare" would be "to drop into". Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to refer to the act of gradually introducing or imparting something, particularly ideas, values, or feelings, into someone's mind or behavior.