Spur: meaning, definitions and examples

This duplicate of 'spur' shares the same meaning and context as the first instance.

• Technology advancements spurred the company's growth.
• Fear of failure spurred him to achieve great things.

Goad implies a more forceful encouragement, often with an emphasis on provoking someone into action. It generally has a slightly negative connotation.

• He was goaded into responding to the critics.
• The coach goaded the players to outdo their opponents.

Prod is used to describe gentle encouragement or urging. It can also mean a physical poke to get someone’s attention or action.

• She felt the need to prod her colleague to complete the project on time.
• He prodded the dog to wake it up.

Stimulus refers specifically to something that causes a reaction or increased activity, often used in scientific or economic contexts.

• The government issued a stimulus package to boost the economy.
• The new drug acted as a stimulus for the patients' faster recovery.

Same as the first entry.

Used when referring to something that motivates or encourages someone to do something, often in a financial, business, or economic context.

• The company offered a bonus as an incentive for reaching sales targets.
• Tax incentives are often used to encourage investment in certain areas.

Refers to a force or influence that makes something happen or happen more quickly. This word is often used in more formal or academic settings.

• The new policy gave fresh impetus to the renewable energy sector.
• His research provided the impetus for further studies in the field.

Used when someone is offering support, confidence or hope to someone else. This word is often found in personal, educational, or professional contexts where emotional or moral support is provided.

• Her teacher's words of encouragement helped her succeed in the exam.
• With a little encouragement from his friends, he decided to apply for the new job.

Used to describe urging someone to take action quickly or with intensity. It can imply a sense of urgency or force.

• His success spurred him to achieve even greater heights.
• The unexpected bonus spurred the employees to work harder.

Pertains to giving someone a reason or incentive to do something, often related to personal or professional goals.

• The desire to help others motivated him to become a doctor.
• Her speech was designed to motivate the team to improve their performance.

Typically refers to causing someone to take action quickly, often used in situations requiring immediate attention or reminding.

• The deadline prompted him to finish the project on time.
• Her remark prompted a lively discussion among the participants.

Applied when providing support, confidence, or hope to someone in a gentle or positive way.

• She always encourages her children to follow their dreams.
• The teacher encouraged the students to ask more questions.