Encouraging

Definition

Encouraging refers to giving support, confidence, or hope to someone. It can also describe something that is optimistic or likely to bring about positive outcomes.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkɜrɪdʒɪŋ/
• Respelling: in-KUR-ij-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ/
• Respelling: in-KUHR-ij-ing

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

Etymology

The word "encouraging" comes 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 confidence or support.

Derivatives

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

Synonyms

• Inspiring
• Uplifting
• Motivating

Antonyms

• Discouraging
• Demoralizing
• Disheartening

Usage

The word "encouraging" is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe actions, words, or situations that provide hope, confidence, or motivation to someone. It is often used in discussions about personal development, education, and leadership.

Related Terms

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

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Giving support, confidence, or hope: Describes actions or words that uplift or provide reassurance to someone.
  • Example: "Her encouraging words helped him overcome his fear of public speaking."
• Optimistic or promising: Refers to situations or outcomes that suggest positive results or progress.
  • Example: "The team's performance in the first half was encouraging."