encouragement

[en-kur-ij-muhnt, -kuhr-] / ɛnˈkɜr ɪdʒ mənt, -ˈkʌr- /

NOUN

help, support

Synonyms

STRONGEST

assistance backing cheer comfort confidence consolation faith fortitude incentive inspiration optimism reassurance relief reward stimulation stimulus

STRONG

advance advocacy aid animation boost easement favor firmness helpfulness hope incitement invigoration promotion refreshment softening succor supporting trust urging

WEAK

consoling enlivening inspiritment reassuring relieving shot in the arm solacing

Antonyms

STRONGEST

annoyance discouragement distrust doubt gloom hindrance hurt injury

STRONG

disbelief impediment

WEAK

denunciation derision deterrent

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.

On set, there definitely is a sense of encouragement.

From The Wall Street Journal

Beyond that, it’s a verbal encouragement for viewers who might not know about Victor’s film to seek it out.

From Salon

She was to offer Mrs. Maroney encouragement to follow her husband’s orders in case she wavered.

From Literature

These unsavory gimmicks do nothing but provide more encouragement to reduce art into something fun to post about online.

From Salon

With the encouragement of the British, he smuggled more out in subsequent trips.

From The Wall Street Journal