English dictionary



Hint: With the Firefox addon you can search this dictionary from the browsers search field.

English verb: encourage

1. encourage (social) contribute to the progress or growth of


SamplesI am promoting the use of computers in the classroom.


ExamplesThey encourage him to write the letter


Synonymsadvance, boost, further, promote


Pattern of useSomebody ----s something.
Somebody ----s somebody.
Something ----s somebody.
Something ----s something


Broader (hypernym)back up, support


Narrower (hyponym)carry, conduce, connive at, contribute, feed, foster, further, help, lead, spur, wink at

2. encourage (emotion) inspire with confidence; give hope or courage to


ExamplesThe good news will encourage her


Pattern of useSomebody ----s somebody.
Something ----s somebody


Broader (hypernym)animate, enliven, exalt, inspire, invigorate


Narrower (hyponym)barrack, bring out, cheer, cheer, draw out, embolden, exhort, foster, goad, hearten, hollo, inspire, nurture, pep up, recreate, root on, spur, urge, urge on


Causehope


Antonymsdiscourage

3. encourage (communication) spur on


SamplesHis financial success encouraged him to look for a wife.


ExamplesThey encourage him to write the letter


Pattern of useSomebody ----s somebody.
Something ----s somebody.
Somebody ----s somebody to INFINITIVE


Broader (hypernym)cause, get, have, induce, make, stimulate









Based on WordNet 3.0 copyright © Princeton University.
Web design: Orcapia v/Per Bang. English edition: .
2024 onlineordbog.dk