inducement

American  

[in-doos-muhnt, -dyoos-] / ɪnˈdus mənt, -ˈdyus- /

noun

1. the act of inducing.

2. the state of being induced.

3. something that induces, motivates, or persuades; incentive.

   Synonyms:

   lure, attraction, incitement, spur, stimulus

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inducement British  

/ ɪnˈdjuːsmənt /

noun

1. the act of inducing

2. a means of inducing; persuasion; incentive

3. law (in pleading) the introductory part that leads up to and explains the matter in dispute

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Related Words

See motive.

Other Word Forms

• preinducement noun
• reinducement noun

Etymology

Origin of inducement

First recorded in 1585–95; induce + -ment

Example Sentences

The second reason to think Mr. Putin might be attracted by economic inducements is that he wants more money himself.

From The Wall Street Journal

The California Interscholastic Federation bars students from “accepting material or financial inducement” to compete for a school “regardless of the source.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Ultimately, one suspects Perkins views Liz’s dilemma as little more than an excuse to construct a fun exercise in nightmare inducement that possesses the same craftsmanship that Malcolm clearly put into his swanky cabin.

From Los Angeles Times

Under the International Religious Freedom Act, designating a country of particular concern can trigger sanctions and other U.S. inducements to address religious persecution.

From The Wall Street Journal

Sliwa, 71, insisted he would not bow to inducements he alleged were arranged by Cuomo -- who denies the claim -- to quit the race, like lucrative jobs with fat salaries and a driver.

From Barron's

Related Words

• encouragement
• stimulus