verb

cause or give rise to (a feeling, situation, or condition).

the issue engendered continuing controversy

cause,be the cause of,give rise to,bring about,lead to,result in,produce,create,generate,arouse,rouse,provoke,incite,kindle,trigger,spark off,touch off,stir up,whip up,induce,inspire,instigate,foment,effect,occasion,promote,foster,beget,enkindle,effectuate