Here are some examples:
* Provoking action: The politician's speech instigated riots in the streets.
* Setting something in motion: The company instigated a new marketing campaign to increase sales.
Other words that convey a similar meaning to instigate include:
* Provoke
* Incite
* Trigger
* Initiate
* Start
* Cause
It's important to note that "instigate" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the action being brought about is harmful or undesirable.