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.

I didn't have anyone to motivate me, so I motivated myself.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

The head of the state’s interscholastic organization told the Journal he suspects illicit payments motivate some transfers, though he lacks proof.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 10, 2026

“Gavin is the candidate who can motivate both the left and the center,” Hastings told The Times, referring to Gov. Gavin Newsom.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

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

I can’t imagine what kind of poverty would motivate a person to forget themselves and everyone they loved so their families could get a monthly stipend.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth

Vocabulary lists containing motivate

List 5

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