Encouragement
ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒmənt
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of inspiring someone with courage, spirit, or confidence.
ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒmənt
The act of giving someone support, confidence, or hope.
She offered words of encouragement to her friend before the big test.
💡 Simply: Encouragement is like giving someone a high-five and saying, 'You can do it!' It's about making them feel good and believing in themselves.
👶 For kids: Encouragement is like telling someone, "Good job!" or "You can do it!" when they're trying something.
More Examples
The coach's encouragement boosted the team's morale.
Receiving encouragement from her family helped her overcome her fears.
How It's Used
"Teachers provide encouragement to their students."
"Therapists offer encouragement to help patients cope."
"The team drew strength from the encouragement of the fans."
Something that provides support, confidence, or hope.
ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒmənt
Something that encourages.
The positive feedback was an encouragement to continue working hard.
💡 Simply: It can also be something *that* encourages you. Like, getting a good grade is encouragement to study harder.
👶 For kids: Something that makes you feel happy and want to keep doing something good.
More Examples
A promotion is a great encouragement to stay motivated.
The success of other students served as an encouragement to reach their academic goals.
How It's Used
"The new policy was seen as an encouragement for economic growth."
"His success was an encouragement to others to follow their dreams."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
words of encouragement
Supportive or positive statements intended to inspire.
"She offered words of encouragement to her friend before the race."
From Middle English *encoraginge*, present participle of *encourage*, from Old French *encoragier*, from *en-* (in) + *corage* (heart, courage).
The word 'encouragement' has been used since the early 16th century, evolving from the verb 'encourage'. Its usage has consistently reflected the act of providing support and motivation.
Memory tip
Think of the root word 'courage'; encouragement gives others more of it.
Word Origin
"To give heart to, to embolden."