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Nudge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nudge

[nʌdʒ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

encouragement

To nudge means to push someone gently in order to draw their attention or encourage them to do something.

Synonyms

jostle, poke, prod.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nudge

Typically used when you gently push someone or something to get attention or to subtly encourage an action. Often used in a positive or neutral context.

  • She gave me a nudge to remind me it was time to leave.
  • He nudged the door open with his foot.
prod

Used when pushing someone or something with a finger or an object to prompt action. It can imply annoyance or impatience.

  • She prodded him in the side to hurry him up.
  • He prodded the fire with a stick to keep it burning.
poke

Often used when referring to a light touch or push with a finger or an object to get attention or for playful teasing. Can be either neutral or slightly annoying depending on the context.

  • She poked him to wake him up.
  • He poked the dough to see if it had risen enough.
jostle

Used when describing pushing or shoving roughly in a crowd or busy place. Often has a negative connotation.

  • The crowd jostled each other as they tried to get on the bus.
  • I was jostled by a passerby in the busy market.

Examples of usage

  • He nudged her to wake her up.
  • She nudged him to speak up during the meeting.
  • Don't forget to nudge me if I start drifting off during the lecture.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that small prompts can significantly impact decision-making, suggesting that slight encouragement can lead to better choices.
  • The concept of nudging is often used to help people improve their health, save more money, or make environmentally-friendly choices.
  • Researchers propose that nudging can help overcome cognitive biases that lead to poor decisions.

Pop Culture

  • The term gained popularity with the publication of 'Nudge' by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein, which explores how choices can be designed to improve lives.
  • Various government policies utilize nudges, like placing healthy foods at eye level to encourage better eating habits.
  • Television shows and movies often depict characters nudging each other towards love or self-improvement.

Education

  • Teachers often use nudging strategies to encourage students to participate more actively without forcing them.
  • Classroom environments designed with nudging principles can lead to enhanced student engagement and achievement.
  • Behavioral strategies in education include visual cues and prompts designed to steer students toward successful habits.

Technology

  • Apps and websites frequently incorporate nudging by sending reminders and notifications to motivate users.
  • Tech companies often analyze user behavior to create effective nudging strategies to boost productivity or engagement.
  • Machine learning algorithms can personalize nudges, making them more effective by understanding individual user habits.

Origin of 'nudge'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'nudge' comes from the late 17th century, originally meaning to push against lightly.
  • It is believed to have come from the dialectal 'nudge,' which meant to prod or poke.
  • Its first use in the context of influencing behavior emerged in the 2000s, especially in discussions about behavioral economics.

The word 'nudge' originated from Middle English 'nudgen', which meant to push or bump gently. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the concept of gently encouraging or prodding someone towards a certain action or decision. The term gained popularity in the field of behavioral economics, particularly with the publication of the book 'Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness' by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein in 2008.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,373, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.