encouragement

noun C1 Formal

Meaning

Encouragement refers to the act of providing support, confidence, or hope to someone, often fostering motivation or positive behavior; it encompasses both verbal affirmations and tangible assistance aimed at enhancing an individual's self-efficacy or resi

💡 While "encouragement" generally carries a positive connotation, it is important to differentiate it from mere flattery or superficial praise, which may lack genuine substance and can lead to dependency rather than fostering true self-improvement.

Example Sentences

The manager's encouragement helped the team meet their sales targets .

The manager's encouragement significantly improved the team's overall performance .

The professor's encouragement significantly improved the students' research motivation .

The teacher ’ s encouragement helped the students improve their writing skills .

Word in Context

Before the meeting , Maria rehearsed her presentation quietly , aware that clarity and calm would matter more than elaborate slides . Her colleague's brief encouragement — a steady nod and a few sincere words about her strengths — helped her focus and reduced her anxiety . As she began , measured pacing and simple examples made the complex ideas accessible , and she noticed the audience nodding in agreement . Afterwards , constructive feedback from the team highlighted specific improvements and reinforced her confidence for future tasks . That supportive atmosphere , which valued honest critique as much as praise , encouraged her to take more initiative in upcoming projects .

Common Phrases

intrinsic motivation positive reinforcement emotional support

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Words

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