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urge

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɜrdʒ/

KK: /ɜrdʒ/

intransitive verb
Definition

To strongly encourage someone to do something or to feel a strong desire to do something.


Example

I urge you to consider all your options before making a decision.


Tense Forms

Past: urged

Past Participle: urged


Conversation
Sloth A
I really felt the urge to go for a hike this weekend.
Sloth B
That sounds awesome! I’ve been wanting to get outside more.
Sloth A
Yeah, being in nature just gives me this strong urge to explore.
Sloth B
Totally! Let’s plan a trip together then.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
press
advocate
encourage
Antonyms
deter
discourage
restrain
noun
Definition

A strong desire or impulse to do something.


Example

She felt an urge to help the homeless man on the street.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever felt the urge to just drop everything and travel?
Sloth B
All the time! I think it's a common feeling, especially when life gets hectic.
Sloth A
Right? Sometimes I have to suppress that urge just to focus on work.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To strongly encourage someone to do something or to press them to take action.


Example

She urged him to apply for the job before the deadline.


Tense Forms

Past: urged

Past Participle: urged


Conversation
Sloth A
I really think you should urge him to apply for that job.
Sloth B
Yeah, but what if he doesn't feel confident enough?
Sloth A
Confidence can come after he gets the interview, though.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Urge comes from the Latin 'urgere' (meaning to press or push). The word describes a strong desire or impulse that pushes one to act.

Memory Tip

Think of a strong 'push' ('urgere') that compels you to do something — that's what urge means.

Visually Confused Words
surge
purge
gurge
ure
spurge
reurge
purger
murage
Is this page helpful?
I get that, but maybe we should plan a little getaway to satisfy that urge!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
impulse
desire
drive
Antonyms
aversion
disinclination
reluctance
That's true! I'll definitely urge him to go for it.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
encourage
exhort
impel
Antonyms
dissuade
discourage
hinder