Motivate: meaning, definitions and examples

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motivate

[ˈməʊtɪveɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

workplace

To stimulate someone's enthusiasm or interest in doing something; to provide a reason for action

Synonyms

drive, empower, encourage, inspire.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
motivate	Use when you want to give someone a reason or incentive to do something, often through rewards or goals. She wants to motivate her team by offering bonuses for meeting their targets. He tried to motivate his students with interesting projects.
inspire	Use when you want to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, particularly something creative or beneficial. Her story inspires many to volunteer and help others. He hopes his artwork will inspire people to appreciate nature.
encourage	Best for giving support, confidence, or hope to someone, often in a more emotional or positive way. He always encourages his friends to follow their dreams. They encourage each other to stay positive during tough times.
drive	Best used when referring to a strong force or energy that compels someone to take action, often for long-term goals. His passion for music drives him to practice every day. Her ambition to succeed drives her to work late hours.
empower	Use when you want to give someone the authority, confidence, or means to do something, making them feel stronger and more capable. The new policies are designed to empower employees to take initiative. She empowers her students by encouraging them to make their own decisions.

Examples of usage

I try to motivate my team by setting clear goals and providing regular feedback.
She always finds a way to motivate herself even when facing challenges.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

self-improvement

To give someone a reason for doing something; to make someone eager to do something

Synonyms

encourage, incite, inspire, stimulate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
motivate	Typically used when talking about providing someone with a reason or incentive to do something. Often linked to achieving goals or work-related tasks. Her coach motivated her to break the record The teacher's praise motivated the students to study harder
encourage	Used when supporting or giving someone confidence to do something, often in a positive and uplifting way. She encouraged her friend to apply for the job Positive feedback from parents can encourage children to do their best
inspire	Used when talking about filling someone with the desire or enthusiasm to do something, often in a creative or artistic sense. Her story inspired me to pursue my dreams The movie inspires viewers to reflect on their own lives
stimulate	Often related to encouraging activity or interest, especially in contexts involving physical or intellectual action. Reading can stimulate the mind Certain chemicals are known to stimulate plant growth
incite	Usually has a negative connotation and is associated with urging someone to act violently or illegally. The leader's speech was intended to incite the crowd to protest Authorities arrested him for inciting a riot

Examples of usage

Reading motivational quotes helps to motivate me to work towards my goals.
Setting small achievable targets can motivate you to keep going.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'motivate' comes from the Latin word 'movere,' which means 'to move.'
It was first used in English around the early 20th century, growing from the ideas of psychology about why people do things.
The term has evolved to not only mean 'driving someone to act' but also 'inspiring' or 'encouraging' in a positive way.

Psychology

Two main types of motivation are intrinsic (from within, like personal goals) and extrinsic (from outside, like rewards).
Research shows that people are more motivated when they find personal meaning in what they do.
Behaviorist theories emphasize rewards and consequences as strong motivating factors in behavior change.

Education

Teachers use various strategies to motivate students, including setting achievable goals and providing positive feedback.
Classroom environments that promote student autonomy can significantly increase intrinsic motivation in learners.
Motivation is often linked to academic success, as engaged students tend to perform better in school.

Pop Culture

Motivational speakers often share powerful stories and techniques to inspire people to overcome challenges.
Movies like 'Rocky' or 'The Pursuit of Happyness' showcase how motivation can push individuals to achieve their dreams.
Social media platforms often promote quotes and messages designed to uplift and motivate audiences daily.

Science

Studies in neuroscience show that motivation is closely linked to the brain's reward system, involving chemicals like dopamine.
Exercise is found to boost motivation levels, as physical activity releases endorphins that improve mood and drive.
Understanding how motivation works can aid in developing better strategies for change in behaviors like eating or exercising.

Translations

Translations of the word "motivate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 motivar

🇮🇳 प्रेरित करना

🇩🇪 motivieren

🇮🇩 memotivasi

🇺🇦 мотивувати

🇵🇱 motywować

🇯🇵 モチベートする

🇫🇷 motiver

🇪🇸 motivar

🇹🇷 motivasyon yapmak

🇰🇷 동기를 부여하다

🇸🇦 تحفيز

🇨🇿 motivovat

🇸🇰 motivovať

🇨🇳 激励

🇸🇮 motivirati

🇮🇸 mótífa

🇰🇿 мотивация беру

🇬🇪 მოტივირება

🇦🇿 motive etmək

🇲🇽 motivar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,674, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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12671 glared
12672 pox
12673 infestation
12674 motivate
12675 tit
12676 settler
12677 surprises
...