Encouraging
/ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsGiving support, confidence, or hope.
/ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ/
Giving someone hope or confidence; supportive.
The encouraging words of the coach motivated the team.
💡 Simply: Like when your friend tells you, "You can do it!" because they think you're gonna win something. Like, "Way to go, you're doing a great job, and you're almost there!"
👶 For kids: When something makes you feel happy and like you can do something.
More Examples
The early test results were encouraging.
Receiving an encouraging letter from a mentor.
Her parents gave her encouraging advice for her new job.
How It's Used
"The encouraging news boosted their morale."
"An encouraging performance by the rookie player."
The action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope.
/ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ/
The act of giving someone support, confidence, or hope.
She found the experience encouraging.
💡 Simply: Helping someone believe in themselves and keep going, like when you cheer your friends on.
👶 For kids: Helping someone feel brave and want to try something new or hard.
More Examples
The positive reviews were encouraging to the author.
The government provided encouraging incentives for green energy.
The teacher was encouraging his students to speak up in class.
How It's Used
"The teacher was encouraging students to participate."
"The company is encouraging its employees to take initiative."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
take heart
To become more hopeful; to be encouraged.
"Take heart, things will get better."
From Middle English *encoragen, from Old French encoragier, from en- (in) + corage (courage).
The word 'encouraging' and its related forms have been used for centuries, evolving from the concept of providing courage and support.
Memory tip
Imagine a friend giving you a thumbs-up – it's encouraging!
Word Origin
"To give courage"