B2verb2K

Discourage

UK /["/dɪsˈkʌrɪdʒ/","/dɪsˈkʌrɪdʒɪz/","/dɪsˈkʌrɪdʒd/","/dɪsˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪsˈkɜːrɪdʒ/","/dɪsˈkɜːrɪdʒɪz/","/dɪsˈkɜːrɪdʒd/","/dɪsˈkɜːrɪdʒɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to try to prevent something or to prevent somebody from doing something, especially by making it difficult to do or by showing that you do not approve of it

In simple words: to make someone feel less confident or hopeful

Examples

The teacher did not want to discourage the students from trying challenging problems.
High taxes can discourage people from investing in new businesses.
The heavy rain did not discourage the hikers from continuing their trip.
Seeing the negative reviews might discourage customers from buying the product.
The warning signs are meant to discourage trespassing on private property.

Usage notes

Use 'discourage' when talking about preventing someone from doing something, especially in a supportive context. Avoid using it in overly negative or harsh situations.

Grammar pattern

discourage + object

Memory hint

Think of it as 'dis-courage' – taking away courage from someone.

Collocations

actively
positively
strongly
try to
from
(not) easily discouraged
actively
positively
strongly
try to
from
(not) easily discouraged

Synonyms

dishearten

Antonyms

encourage
support
motivate

Common mistakes

Confused with 'discouraged' which describes a feeling.
Using 'discourage' without an object, e.g., saying 'I discourage' without specifying what.
Incorrectly using 'discourage' in a context where 'support' would be better.