B2verb2K

Stimulate

UK /["/ˈstɪmjuleɪt/","/ˈstɪmjuleɪts/","/ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪd/","/ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈstɪmjuleɪt/","/ˈstɪmjuleɪts/","/ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪd/","/ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make something develop or become more active; to encourage something

In simple words: To make someone feel more active or interested.

Examples

  • The bright colors on the packaging are designed to stimulate consumer interest.
  • Caffeine can stimulate the central nervous system, making you feel more alert.
  • The government introduced policies to stimulate economic growth during the recession.
  • Music can stimulate emotions and memories in powerful ways.
  • They used electric shocks to stimulate the muscles during the physiotherapy session.

Usage notes

Used in academic, health, and everyday contexts. Appropriate when discussing mental or physical activation, but avoid in overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

stimulate + object

Memory hint

Think of 'stimulate' as 'stimulus' — imagine a teacher stimulating students' minds.

Collocations

  • greatly
  • significantly
  • strongly
  • help (to)
  • be designed to
  • be intended to
  • greatly
  • significantly
  • strongly
  • help (to)
  • be designed to
  • be intended to

Synonyms

  • arouse
  • encourage
  • activate
  • inspire
  • revive

Antonyms

  • dull
  • depress
  • suppress

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'simulate' which means to imitate.
  • Using intransitively (e.g., 'The exercise stimulates') without an object.
  • Mispronouncing as 'stim-u-late' instead of 'stim-late'.