Another Word for Encourage: 19 Synonyms with Examples
To encourage is to give someone support or confidence, or to help something develop. Alternatives vary from gentle support to strong pressure.
As a verb: give confidence or support
As a verb: persuade or urge
- urge
- persuade
- prompt
- push
- advise
- coax
As a verb: help develop
- promote
- foster
- boost
- stimulate
- nurture
- cultivate
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- reassure
- Removes doubts or fears.
- motivate
- Gives someone a reason or desire to act.
- urge
- Encourages strongly, often with some pressure.
- coax
- Gently persuades someone, often patiently.
- foster
- Helps something like a skill or feeling develop over time.
- promote
- Actively supports or publicises.
Example sentences
- reassure: The nurse reassured him that the test wouldn't hurt.
- motivate: Small rewards motivate younger pupils.
- urge: Police urged drivers to avoid the area.
- coax: She coaxed the cat out from under the bed.
- foster: The club fosters a love of reading.
- promote: The campaign promotes healthy eating in schools.
Opposite of encourage
- discourage
- deter
- dissuade
- hinder
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “encourage”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: advance, further
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “encourage”?
The most useful alternatives are “support”, “reassure”, “hearten”, “cheer”, “inspire”. For the main sense (give confidence or support), “support” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “reassure” and “motivate”?
reassure: Removes doubts or fears. motivate: Gives someone a reason or desire to act.
What is the opposite of “encourage”?
Common antonyms are “discourage”, “deter”, “dissuade”, “hinder”.