Encouragement

Definition

Encouragement refers to the act of giving someone support, confidence, or hope. It can also mean something that stimulates someone to take action or continue with an effort.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkɜːrɪdʒmənt/
• Respelling: in-KUR-ij-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒmənt/
• Respelling: in-KURR-ij-muhnt

The pronunciation of "encouragement" differs slightly between American and British English, particularly in the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "encouragement" originates from the Old French word "encouragier," which is derived from "en-" meaning "make" or "put in" and "corage" meaning "courage." The term evolved in English to describe the act of giving someone support or confidence to help them achieve something or overcome challenges.

Derivatives

• Encourage (verb)
• Encourager (noun)
• Encouraging (adjective)
• Re-encourage (verb)
• Encouragingly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Support
• Inspiration
• Motivation

Antonyms

• Discouragement
• Deterrent
• Disapproval

Usage

The word "encouragement" is commonly used in personal, educational, and professional contexts to describe actions, words, or gestures that provide support and confidence to someone. It is often used in situations where someone needs reassurance, motivation, or positive reinforcement.

Related Terms

• Motivation: The reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way.
• Inspiration: The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
• Support: To bear all or part of the weight of; hold up.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of giving support, confidence, or hope: Refers to actions or words that uplift, reassure, or inspire someone to take action or continue with an effort.
  • Example: "Her words of encouragement helped him face the challenge with confidence."
• Something that stimulates someone to take action: Describes a factor or element that motivates or inspires a person to do something.
  • Example: "The teacher's praise was a great source of encouragement for the students."