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Synonyms for

Motivation

Noun / 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

need motivating motive 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).

Compare "motivation" with another word →

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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