incentivize

[in-sen-ti-vahyz] / ɪnˈsɛn tɪˌvaɪz /

VERB

incite to action or greater effort often with a reward

Synonyms

STRONGEST

encourage motivate

STRONG

boost excite stimulate

WEAK

actuate energize galvanize impel incite innervate inspire lead move propel rouse tap

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deter disincentivize

STRONG

discourage

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Some argue a headlong commercial race will inevitably incentivize companies to cut corners on safety.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

“Firm compensation structures incentivize potentially good advisers to lead clients into bad structures,” said Noah Damsky, a Los Angeles-based chartered financial analyst.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 28, 2026

New tax rules starting in 2027 and owner John Malone’s age could incentivize a sale of the Atlanta Braves.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

With the Iran war continuing to strangle Middle East oil supplies, public transit agencies looking to add passengers might expect high gas prices to incentivize people to ride the rails more than ever.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

We’re talking about the sort of behaviors that the tariffs incentivized in people or didn’t incentivize.

From Slate • Apr. 22, 2026

Vocabulary lists containing incentivize

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