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en·cour·age

encourage

 
 
pronunciation:
ihn kuhr ihj
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word Parts
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: encourages, encouraging, encouraged
definition 1: to arouse feelings of hope or courage in; give confidence to; hearten.
Winning in the first round of judging encouraged him tremendously.
synonyms:
buck up, buoy up, embolden, hearten, nerve
antonyms:
abash, demoralize, deter, discourage, dishearten, dismay, dispirit
similar words:
assure, cheer, enliven, inspire, rally, rouse, sustain
definition 2: to give help, support, or approval to.
He hadn't planned on going to college, but his guidance counselor strongly encouraged him.One boy was hitting and teasing the dog, and the others were encouraging him.Her parents encouraged her in her efforts to become a figure skater.
synonyms:
egg on, prick, prompt, spur on
antonyms:
discourage, dissuade, hinder, restrain
similar words:
abet, fortify, impel, incite, induce, inspire, invite, motivate, pat on the back, prod, stimulate, support, woo
definition 3: to enthusiastically advise (someone) to pursue a course of action; urge.
I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity while you have the chance.Her husband encouraged her to return to her career.
synonyms:
urge
definition 4: to stimulate or promote; advance.
Plant food will encourage blossoming.Early graduation is possible, but the school does not encourage it.The city is putting in more bicycle lanes to encourage bicycling as a way to commute.
synonyms:
boost, forward, foster, further, help, induce, promote, stimulate
antonyms:
counteract, depress, deter, discourage, hinder, inhibit, put off, silence, stifle, suppress
similar words:
actuate, advance, arouse, cultivate, galvanize, incite, inspire, invite, provoke, stir up
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