Definition

Providing support or confidence to someone, making them feel more hopeful or positive about a situation.

Example

Her encouraging words helped me to believe in myself.

Conversation

I found that encouraging article about mental health yesterday.

Oh really? What did it say?

It talked about how small victories can really boost your mood, which I found encouraging.

That sounds great! We all need that kind of positivity sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Encouraging → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be) and "courage" (from Old French *corage*, meaning heart or spirit) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "encouraging" means causing someone to have heart or spirit, thus inspiring them to take action or feel more confident.

Memory Tip

Think of 'causing someone to have heart' — 'en-' means to cause, and 'courage' refers to heart or spirit. This helps you remember that 'encouraging' means inspiring someone to feel more confident.

Visually Confused Words