motivate

[moh-tuh-veyt] / ˈmoʊ təˌveɪt /

VERB

stimulate, instigate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

drive excite galvanize incline inspire persuade prompt propel provoke spark spur sway trigger

STRONG

actuate arouse bring cause dispose draw fire goad goose impel incite induce innervate inspirit lead move pique predetermine predispose quicken rouse sound suggest whet

WEAK

egg on give incentive innerve prevail upon set afoot set astir touch off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

check discourage dissuade halt hinder prevent repress retard stop

STRONG

bore calm delay dishearten dull quiet slow

WEAK

depress disconcert

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.

Nintendo is releasing games that are exclusive to the Switch 2, which could motivate people to buy the device.

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

‘If you think huge, you will expand your vision and motivate yourself to go beyond perceived limitations. It’s not the money, it’s the mindset.’

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

Then there was the Hollywood fear factor to motivate him.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

“The shutdown will add pressure and motivate the negotiations,” Vakil said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

It was a mission that would motivate and frustrate her all her life.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Vocabulary lists containing motivate

List 5

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