Another Word for Motivate: 10 Synonyms with Examples
To motivate is to give someone a reason or the enthusiasm to do something. Alternatives show whether the push is inspiring, practical or forceful.
As a verb: give a reason or desire to act
As a verb: be the reason for
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.
- inspire
- Fills someone with enthusiasm or a creative urge.
- encourage
- Gentler; gives support and confidence.
- drive
- A strong force pushes someone to act.
- spur
- Prompts quick action.
- prompt
- Causes someone to do something, often at a particular moment.
- underlie
- Is the hidden reason behind something.
Example sentences
- inspire: Her grandmother's stories inspired her to become a historian.
- encourage: The coach encouraged every player, whatever their level.
- drive: Curiosity drives most good research.
- spur: The near miss spurred the council to fix the crossing.
- prompt: The complaint prompted a review of the policy.
- underlie: Fear of failure underlies a lot of procrastination.
Opposite of motivate
- discourage
- deter
- demotivate
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “motivate”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: actuate, propel, incite
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “motivate”?
The most useful alternatives are “inspire”, “encourage”, “drive”, “spur”, “stimulate”. For the main sense (give a reason or desire to act), “inspire” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “inspire” and “encourage”?
inspire: Fills someone with enthusiasm or a creative urge. encourage: Gentler; gives support and confidence.
What is the opposite of “motivate”?
Common antonyms are “discourage”, “deter”, “demotivate”.