Stimulate: meaning, definitions and examples

Can also be used in economic or business contexts to indicate efforts to boost financial activity or productivity.

• The government implemented policies to stimulate economic growth.
• New investment is needed to stimulate the local economy.

Applied when you want to give support, confidence, or hope to someone, often through positive words and actions.

• Parents should encourage their children to pursue their dreams.
• Her friends encouraged her to apply for the scholarship.

Used when you aim to provide someone with a reason or incentive to do something, often by focusing on goals or rewards.

• The coach's speech was designed to motivate the players to give their best performance.
• She was motivated by the desire to help others in her community.

Best used when you aim to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something creative or beneficial, often leading to higher aspirations.

• The story of his success can inspire young entrepreneurs.
• The breathtaking view inspired her to paint for hours.

Used when you want to describe something that makes someone more active or interested, often by creating enthusiasm or excitement.

• The bright colors stimulate children's creativity.
• The government plans to stimulate the economy by lowering interest rates.

Commonly used to talk about increasing or improving something significantly, often in a practical or measurable way.

• The new marketing campaign helped boost sales.
• Drinking coffee can boost your energy levels.

Used to describe actions taken to support or advance the progress of something, often with the intention of making it more well-known or successful.

• The company launched a new campaign to promote its latest product.
• Schools should promote healthy eating habits among students.

Best used when talking about giving someone support, confidence, or hope to do something.

• Parents should encourage their children to pursue their hobbies.
• The coach gave a pep talk to encourage the team before the match.

Reiteration of 'stimulate' which has already been described.

Typically used in medical or biological contexts to refer to substances that cause excitement or increased activity in biological systems. Not commonly used in everyday conversation.

• Caffeine acts as an excitant to the central nervous system.
• Increased light exposure can be an excitant for certain marine organisms.

Commonly refers to substances that temporarily increase alertness and energy. Often used in medical, health, and fitness contexts. Has a more physical connotation.

• Coffee is a widely consumed stimulant that helps people stay awake and alert.
• Doctors often prescribe certain stimulants to patients with attention disorders.
• Energy drinks contain stimulants that can improve physical performance.