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- pronunciation:
- ihn
kuhr
ihj
- features:
- Word Parts
| part of speech: |
verb |
| inflections: |
encourages, encouraging, encouraged |
| definition 1: |
When something encourages you, it gives you a feeling of hope or courage.
Her smile encouraged me.Her praise encouraged me to continue playing the piano.- antonyms:
- discourage
- similar words:
- cheer, inspire
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| definition 2: |
If someone encourages you, they support what you are doing or what you want to do. They give you help or a feeling of confidence.
Lauren wanted to give up playing the violin, but her mother kept encouraging her.Taylor's parents encouraged her in her dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer.- synonyms:
- prompt
- similar words:
- inspire, invite, motivate, stimulate, support
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| definition 3: |
If someone encourages you to do something, they say things to help you feel it is a good thing to do and that you should do it. If someone encourages you not to do something, they gently advise you not to do that thing.
Her parents encouraged her to audition for the school play.- synonyms:
- urge
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| definition 4: |
If someone encourages your interest in something, they support your interest in it and try to help you go forward with it. If people encourage something, they support it and try to help it grow or develop.
The city is putting in more bicycle lanes to encourage bike riding.- synonyms:
- further, help, promote, stimulate
- antonyms:
- discourage
- similar words:
- advance, inspire, invite, provoke, stir up
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| related words: |
assist, comfort, feed, help, lift, push, recommend, urge |
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