encouraging

adjective

en·​cour·​ag·​ing in-ˈkər-i-jiŋ How to pronounce encouraging (audio)
-ˈkə-ri-,
en-
: giving hope or promise
encouraging news
encouragingly
in-ˈkər-i-jiŋ-lē How to pronounce encouraging (audio)
-ˈkə-ri-
en-
adverb

Examples of encouraging in a Sentence

We've just heard some encouraging news. encouraging signs that the economy is improving
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For climate activists, this may be viewed an encouraging green hushing, or the intentional omission of climate friendly and environmentally friendly actions by a company to avoid controversy of liability. Jon McGowan, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025 Even reading about significant crime reduction in my beloved hometown is encouraging. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 14 Apr. 2025 If the Bills can find an encouraging developmental offensive lineman with starter traits to stash on the inactive list all year, that’s an intriguing proposition. Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025 The encouraging news is that, in the first quarter, Goldman’s trading teams delivered in a big way to help offset the challenging environment for investment banking. Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for encouraging

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of encouraging was in 1593

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Encouraging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encouraging. Accessed 1 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on encouraging

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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