Incentive: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in situations where you want to highlight a tangible reward or benefit that drives someone to do something.

• The company offers an annual bonus as an incentive for meeting sales targets.
• Tax breaks serve as incentives for businesses to invest in renewable energy.

Used generally to describe the internal drive or desire to achieve something. It's broader than 'incentive' and can include personal passion or goals.

• Her strong motivation to succeed drove her to study hard every night.
• The coach focused on building the team's motivation before the big game.

Often used in formal or legal contexts where something is offered to persuade or influence someone to take a particular action. It can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• The signing bonus was a major inducement for him to accept the job offer.
• The witness claimed the defendant offered him an inducement to change his testimony.

Most often used in contexts where something causes a reaction or activity, particularly in economic or biological scenarios.

• The government introduced a stimulus package to boost the economy.
• Light acts as a stimulus for plants to grow.

Appropriate when referring to support or positive reinforcement provided to boost someone's confidence or morale.

• Her words of encouragement helped him through a tough time.
• The teacher's encouragement motivated the students to participate more in class.

Used when referring to something that encourages a person to take action or to work harder. Often used in economic, business, or formal contexts.

• The company offers financial incentives to employees who meet their targets.
• Tax incentives have been introduced to attract foreign investors.

Used when referring to the underlying reason or motivation for doing something. Often used in psychological, legal, or philosophical contexts.

• The detective questioned the suspect about his motive for the crime.
• What was her motive for making such a generous donation?

Used when referring to something that provokes a reaction or activity, often in scientific, economic, or formal contexts.

• A stimulus package was introduced to revive the struggling economy.
• The research focuses on how different stimuli affect brain activity.

Used when referring to something that persuades or influences someone to do something. This word can carry a neutral or slightly manipulative connotation depending on the context.

• The large bonus acted as an inducement for him to accept the job offer.
• Gifts and other inducements were offered to secure the contract.

Used when referring to support or confidence given to someone to help them take action, often in personal or emotional contexts.

• She gave her friend words of encouragement before the interview.
• Parental encouragement is crucial for a child's success in school.