Encourage vs Prompt
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Encourage | Prompt | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | To make someone want to do something or feel confident. | to encourage someone to do something. |
| CEFR level | B1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | verb | verb |
| Usage notes | Used when you want to support someone in taking action or improving their situation. It is appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. | Use 'prompt' in formal or neutral contexts when encouraging action or thought. Avoid in informal conversation. |
Frequently asked questions: Encourage vs Prompt
What's the difference between "Encourage" and "Prompt"?
"Encourage" means: To make someone want to do something or feel confident. "Prompt" means: to encourage someone to do something.
When should I use "Encourage" and "Prompt"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Encourage" and "Prompt" the same CEFR level?
"Encourage" is at B1, "Prompt" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.