encourage
verb (used with object)
to inspire with courage, spirit, or confidence.
had encouraged
-
past perfectof encourage.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Kent later said the group was attempting to build a new anti-war political movement and had encouraged Carlson to run for president in 2028.
From Salon ● Aug. 22, 2026
Ohtani, who Alfonzo said had encouraged him with “Let’s get the first hit today” before the game, greeted him with: “Congratulations! I told you.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 20, 2026
Her husband worked at Concorde Career Colleges, which focus on healthcare training, and he had encouraged her to look into its programs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 7, 2026
Investigators also considered an allegation that an officer had encouraged a colleague to destroy the mobile phone out of fear it might be recording.
From BBC ● Oct. 27, 2025
That it was she who had encouraged Gogol to meet Moushumi will be something for which Ashima will always feel guilty.
From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri
