Synonyms for

Motivation

Verb / ˌməʊtʌˈveɪʃʌn / Another word for motivation — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Motivation is the reason or reasons why a person does something or behaves in a certain way.

Synonyms & similar words

motivating motive need inspiration incentive stimulus drive ambition urge desire determination impetus encouragement persuasion reason cause motive instigation spur prodding prod kick-start lift

Synonyms by register

Formal

impetus incentive drive purpose

Informal

mojo oomph get-up-and-go steam

Literary

ardor zeal fire

Antonyms

apathy indifference lethargy laziness disinterest ennui

Common collocations

  • lack of motivation
  • lose motivation
  • find motivation
  • maintain motivation
  • source of motivation
  • intrinsic motivation
  • extrinsic motivation

Word family

noun motivation
verb motivate
adjective motivational
adverb motivatively

Usage note

Motivation refers to the reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way. It can be internal (intrinsic) or external (extrinsic).

Example sentences

  1. The teacher's motivation helped the student succeed in class.
  2. My motivation to exercise is to stay healthy and strong.
  3. The promise of a reward was a great motivation for the team.
  4. His motivation for working hard was to buy a new car.
  5. The coach's pep talk provided motivation for the players to win.

Quotes

  • Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going. - Jim Ryun
  • Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. - Winston Churchill
  • Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle. - Christian D. Larson

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