B2verb1K

Motivate

UK /["/ˈməʊtɪveɪt/","/ˈməʊtɪveɪts/","/ˈməʊtɪveɪtɪd/","/ˈməʊtɪveɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈməʊtɪveɪt/","/ˈməʊtɪveɪts/","/ˈməʊtɪveɪtɪd/","/ˈməʊtɪveɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be the reason why somebody does something or behaves in a particular way

In simple words: To make someone want to do something.

Examples

  • What motivates people to carry out such attacks?
  • He is motivated entirely by self-interest.
  • He was motivated to join the union because he objected to the new contract.
  • We created the conditions whereby the child is motivated to speak.
  • She's very good at motivating her students.
  • His greatest quality is the way he motivates his team.
  • The plan is designed to motivate employees to work more efficiently.
  • Please motivate your answer to question 5.

Usage notes

Use 'motivate' when discussing encouragement or driving forces behind actions. It's appropriate in educational or professional contexts but may seem formal in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

motivate + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'moe-tiv8' — imagine Moe motivating his friends to win a game.

Collocations

  • motivate employees
  • motivate students
  • motivate oneself

Synonyms

  • inspire
  • encourage
  • stimulate
  • drive
  • galvanize

Antonyms

  • demotivate
  • discourage

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'motivation' as a verb.
  • Using 'motivate' without an object.
  • Mixing up 'motivate' with 'inspire' and using them interchangeably.