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- 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
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| 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
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| 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
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| 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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| related words: |
admonish, animate, assist, buoy, comfort, console, countenance, exhort, feed, help, lift, make, nourish, push, recommend, reinforce, sanction, solace, spirit, stir, urge, warm, welcome |
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