inspire
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈspaɪə/
KK: /ɪnˈspaɪər/
intransitive verb
Definition
To fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially something creative or positive.
Example
The teacher's passion for science inspired her students to explore the subject further.
Tense Forms
Past: inspired
Past Participle: inspired
Conversation
I read this amazing book that really inspired me.
That sounds great! What was it about?
It was all about following your dreams and not giving up.
I love books like that; they really help motivate you!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
motivate
encourage
uplift
Antonyms
dissuade
discourage
demotivate
transitive verb
Definition
To fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially something creative or positive.
Example
The teacher inspired her students to pursue their dreams.
Tense Forms
Past: inspired
Past Participle: inspired
Conversation
I just finished reading a book that really inspired me.
Oh really? What was it about?
It was about overcoming challenges and how to stay motivated.
Root Explanation
Inspire → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "spirare" (meaning to breathe). The word "inspire" means to breathe into, often referring to the act of filling someone with a feeling or thought.
Memory Tip
Think of the idea of 'breathing into' someone — 'in-' means into, and 'spirare' means to breathe. This helps you remember that to inspire means to fill someone with a new idea or feeling.
Visually Confused Words
reinspire
coinspire
spire
uninspired
preinspire
unspired
conspire