Synonyms for

Encourages

Verb / eˈnkɜ:ɪdʒɪz / / ɪˈnkɜ:ʌdʒʌz / Another word for encourages — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To give someone support, confidence, or hope

Synonyms & similar words

further encourage promote boost discourage advance motivates inspires stimulates urges pushes promotes spurs bolsters uplifts boosts fosters cultivates nurtures fortifies reinforces emboldens galvanizes cheers backings advocates

Synonyms by register

Formal

promotes supports advocates fosters

Informal

cheers on roots for gives a boost backs

Literary

heartens uplifts inspires

Antonyms

discourages deters dissuades hinders inhibits opposes

Common collocations

  • encourages growth
  • encourages participation
  • encourages innovation
  • encourages dialogue
  • encourages investment
  • encourages learning
  • encourages responsible behavior

Word family

noun encouragement
verb encourage
adjective encouraging
adverb encouragingly

Usage note

Encourages implies providing support or confidence to someone or something to do or continue to do something. It is generally a positive term, often used in contexts of development or motivation.

Example sentences

  1. My mom encourages me to do my best at school.
  2. The coach encourages his players to work hard.
  3. The teacher encourages her students to ask questions.
  4. My friend encourages me to try new things.
  5. The boss encourages her employees to be creative.

Quotes

  • Believe that you can do it and you are halfway there. - Theodore Roosevelt
  • You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. - Wayne Gretzky
  • Believe you can and you're halfway there. - Theodore Roosevelt

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