View synonyms for encourage

encourage

[en-kur-ij, -kuhr-]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used with object)

encouraged, encouraging

to inspire with courage, spirit, or confidence.
His coach encouraged him throughout the marathon race to keep on running.
Synonyms: reassure, hearten, embolden
Antonyms: dishearten, discourage
to stimulate by assistance, approval, etc..
One of the chief duties of a teacher is to encourage students.
Synonyms: help, aid, support, urge
to promote, advance, or foster.
Poverty often encourages crime.

encourage

/ ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒ /

verb

to inspire (someone) with the courage or confidence (to do something)
to stimulate (something or someone to do something) by approval or help; support

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Other Word Forms

encourager noun
encouragingly adverb
overencourage verb (used with object)
preencourage verb (used with object)
reencourage verb (used with object)
unencouraged adjective
unencouraging adjective
well-encouraged adjective
encouragement noun
encouraging adjective

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Word History and Origins

Origin of encourage¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English encoragen, from Anglo-French, Middle French encorag(i)er; en- ¹ ( def. ), courage ( def. )

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Despite the encouraging results of the mouse study, Otton points out that it is not yet possible to determine a safe and effective dose of green tea for humans.

Related Words

encounter session encouragement

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