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.

Parents can also incentivize their children to invest more.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

The U.S. is unusual for its lack of a federal tax credit to incentivize production in the country—a fact many in the entertainment industry are lobbying to change.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

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

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

With the Iran war continuing to strangle Middle East oil supplies, public transit agencies looking to add passengers might expect high gas prices to incentivize people to ride the rails more than ever.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

What kind of behavior did these tariff refunds incentivize?

From Slate • Apr. 22, 2026

Vocabulary lists containing incentivize

The Summer of Bitter and Sweet

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