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 idea was you incentivize people to stick around with the prospect of a big payday upon an exit or an IPO.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Now consider an economic approach with a menu designed to incentivize firms to self-identify.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Chinese policies heavily incentivize EV purchases, and the charging infrastructure is more developed.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

The point of optimism here is that women who have made the commitment to love themselves are providing the societal structure needed to incentivize men to do the same.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 13, 2026

Lower rates typically incentivize investors to shift money from cash and bonds into the stock market, with the hope of higher returns.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 31, 2026