MOTIVATE Synonyms: 74 Similar and Opposite Words

motivate

verb

as in to encourage

to rouse to action or activity The presence of treats motivated the dogs to obey their owner's commands. They drove a campaign to motivate voters to show up to the polls.

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of motivate The president of Wisconsin's largest mosque was detained by federal immigration agents, drawing accusations Thursday from local officials and religious leaders that the arrest was motivated by his criticism of Israel. —

CBS News, 3 Apr. 2026 That came about 24 hours after Roberts hired a new coach away from Akron, a decision that the Akron AD later said was motivated by… money. —

Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 3 Apr. 2026 Or rather, the badge, the pride of the fans, the perilous position of the team, their own considerable salaries might motivate them enough. —

Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 2 Apr. 2026 Shaun’s content still motivates, but it is now complemented by morning cuddle photos. —

Sierra Leone Starks, Parents, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for motivate

Recent Examples of Synonyms for motivate

Verb

And there were a number of terrorist organizations that sought to encourage the British to leave, thus creating a united Ireland.

— Colm Tóibín, The New York Review of Books, 4 Apr. 2026
Teammates encouraged her and one even lifted her chin, but the damage was done.

— David Brandt, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026