motivate

[moh-tuh-veyt] / ˈmoʊ təˌveɪt /

VERB

stimulate, instigate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

drive excite galvanize incline inspire persuade prompt propel provoke spark spur sway trigger

STRONG

actuate arouse bring cause dispose draw fire goad goose impel incite induce innervate inspirit lead move pique predetermine predispose quicken rouse sound suggest whet

WEAK

egg on give incentive innerve prevail upon set afoot set astir touch off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

check discourage dissuade halt hinder prevent repress retard stop

STRONG

bore calm delay dishearten dull quiet slow

WEAK

depress disconcert

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.

Some even think that tactics could backfire, motivating Powell to stay on the Fed as a governor after his term as chair runs out in May.

From The Wall Street Journal

Like other chimpanzees at the centre, Ai would scrawl marker pens over blank paper without having to be motivated by food rewards.

From BBC

Officials do not currently believe that the incident was politically motivated or an act of terrorism but stemmed from an altercation in the crowd, according to L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

They said they were motivated to come because they were outraged by the shooting.

From Los Angeles Times

Many survivors say a hope for the future is the one thing that motivates them.

From Los Angeles Times

motivate

Example Sentences

Related Words