incentivize

American  

[in-sen-ti-vahyz] / ɪnˈsɛn tɪˌvaɪz /

Also incent

verb (used with object)

incentivized, incentivizing

1. to give incentives to.

   The government should incentivize the private sector to create jobs.

---

incentivize British  

/ ɪnˈsɛntɪˌvaɪz /

verb

1. (tr)

   1. to provide (someone) with a good reason for wanting to do something

      why not incentivize companies to relocate?

   2. to promote (something) with a particular incentive

      an incentivized share option scheme

---

Etymology

Origin of incentivize

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70

Example Sentences

“Finally, the United States should incentivize and reward American companies that source U.S.-produced critical minerals and derivative products.”

From Barron's

New Jersey utility regulators are to vote Wednesday on a series of “decarbonization” measures designed to incentivize buildings to switch from natural gas heat to electric.

From Seattle Times

Some proposals have come from Medicare, which unveiled a plan to incentivize hospitals to stockpile essential drugs.

From New York Times

Credits would also incentivize people in communities with gutted newspapers to acquire and restore them, or start new ones and spur competition.

From Seattle Times

Instead, the theater chain will aim to incentivize sitting in the front row by making those seats more attractive.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• encourage
• motivate