motivating
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /məʊtɪˈveɪtɪŋ/
KK: /moʊtɪˌveɪtɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Providing encouragement or inspiration to do something.
Example
The teacher gave a motivating speech that inspired the students to work harder.
Conversation
I just read this book that was really motivating for me.
Oh really? What was it about?
It talked about achieving goals and staying positive, which I found super helpful.
Nice! I could use something motivating like that in my life right now.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
inspiring
encouraging
stimulating
Antonyms
demotivating
discouraging
uninspiring
verb
Definition
To encourage someone to take action or to inspire them to achieve something.
Example
The coach is motivating the team to give their best in the final match.
Tense Forms
Past: motivated
Past Participle: motivated
Conversation
I've been looking for something motivating to start my day right.
Have you tried listening to some podcasts? They can be really inspiring.
That's a great idea! I could use some motivating stories to get me going.
Root Explanation
Motivating → It is formed from "motive" (from Latin "motivus", meaning causing motion) and "-ing" (a suffix used to form present participles). The word "motivating" means causing someone to take action or inspiring them to move forward.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'causes motion' — 'motive' is about what drives us, and the '-ing' shows it's happening now. This helps you remember that 'motivating' means inspiring action.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.