Definitions

incentivize

[in-sen-ti-vahyz] / ɪnˈsɛn tɪˌvaɪz /

VERB

incite to action or greater effort often with a reward

Synonyms

STRONGEST

encourage motivate

STRONG

boost excite stimulate

WEAK

actuate energize galvanize impel incite innervate inspire lead move propel rouse tap

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deter disincentivize

STRONG

discourage

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.

“The projects we incentivize have to fit this heartland, middle America approach to things,” says Tennessee deputy governor Stuart McWhorter.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

Tran would work to expand programs, such as the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, to incentivize developers to build more affordable units, and to provide direct mortgage relief and down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Some believe direct flights would incentivize investors to explore opportunities in Venezuela.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

“Firm compensation structures incentivize potentially good advisers to lead clients into bad structures,” said Noah Damsky, a Los Angeles-based chartered financial analyst.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 28, 2026

We’re talking about the sort of behaviors that the tariffs incentivized in people or didn’t incentivize.

From Slate • Apr. 22, 2026

Vocabulary lists containing incentivize

The Summer of Bitter and Sweet

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