What is encourage? Pronunciation and usage in English

encourage means . Learn how to pronounce and use encourage through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of encourage

encourageverb

/ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒ//ɛnˈkʌrɪdʒ/
Definition & pronunciation of encourage

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "encourage." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown, focusing on the sounds:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "en": This is pronounced like the "en" in "pen" or "hen." It's a short "e" sound.
  • "cour": This is the trickiest part. Think of it as sounding like "core" – like the center of something. It’s a short "ah" sound.
  • "age": This is pronounced like the word "age."

2. Putting it Together - The Full Pronunciation:

The whole word is pronounced something like this: en-kOR-ij (with emphasis on the "OR").

Here's a more detailed breakdown, with phonetic symbols (using the International Phonetic Alphabet, which is a standard way to represent sounds):

  • /ˈɛn.kɔːr.ɪdʒ/

Let’s break down each syllable:

  • ˈɛn – (as in “pen”) - This is the first syllable, stressed.
  • kɔːr – (like "core") - This is the second syllable. The "ɔː" represents the “aw” sound, as in "caught."
  • ɪdʒ – (like the “idge” in “bridge”) - This is the third syllable.

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "encourage" like "en-cor-age." The "cor" sound is wrong.
  • The "r" sound in "encourage**" is subtle.** It's not a strong, rolled "r," but it’s still present.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear it. Here are some resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word encourage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "encourage" in English. It's a really versatile word, so understanding its nuances is helpful.

1. Basic Meaning: To motivate someone to do something.

  • Core Definition: "Encourage" means to give someone support, confidence, or motivation to do something. It’s about helping them feel capable and happy to pursue a goal or activity.

2. Different Ways to Use “Encourage” – With Examples:

  • Directly Motivating: This is the most common use.

    • "I encouraged my daughter to try out for the basketball team." (I supported her, told her she could do it, etc.)
    • "The teacher encouraged the students to ask questions." (The teacher created an environment where asking questions was welcome and encouraged.)
    • “The coach encouraged the team to keep practicing, even when they were losing.” (Motivating them to continue).

  • Giving Confidence: “Encourage” can mean boosting someone's self-belief.

    • "He encouraged me to believe in myself." (He gave me confidence.)
    • "A kind word can encourage someone who is feeling down." (It can lift their spirits and make them feel stronger.)

  • Promoting an Activity or Idea: You can use it to promote something positive.

    • "The charity encourages donations to help those in need." (They actively promote the idea of donating.)
    • "The government encourages renewable energy sources." (They are promoting and supporting these sources.)

  • With Verbs Like "to" or "to do":

    • "I encouraged him to take a break." (I motivated him to do something.)
    • "She encouraged me to do my best." (She motivated me to strive for excellence.)

3. Phrases and Related Words:

  • Encourage someone to do something: This is a very common and natural construction.
  • Encourage a positive attitude: To help someone be optimistic.
  • Encourage innovation: To foster new ideas and creativity.
  • Be encouraged: (as a passive voice) – “I was encouraged by his words.” (I felt motivated and supported.)
  • Encouraging words/actions: Words or deeds that build someone up.
  • To instill courage: This means to give someone bravery or confidence.

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Motivate
  • Inspire
  • Support
  • Encourage
  • Uphold
  • Boost
  • Advise (sometimes – if it’s about giving good advice that leads to action)

5. Important Note: “Encourage” vs. “Convince”

  • Encourage focuses on support and belief, even if the outcome isn't certain.

  • Convince focuses on persuading someone to believe something or do something against their initial opinion.

    Example: "I encouraged my friend to try yoga, hoping it would help her relax." (I wanted her to try it, with support) Example: "I convinced my brother to give up smoking." (I persuaded him to stop smoking – he had a different opinion before)

To help me tailor this explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you trying to do with the word "encourage"? (e.g., are you writing a story, practicing for a conversation, or just trying to understand it better?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're considering using "encourage"?

Synonyms for the word encourage

Practice with vocabulary encourage

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. To truly innovate, companies must _____ employees to share their unconventional ideas, even if they seem outlandish at first.
  2. The city council decided to _____ new businesses by offering tax incentives for the first two years.
  3. Despite initial setbacks, her unwavering determination continued to _____ her team to pursue their ambitious goals.
  4. It's crucial for leaders to actively _____ open communication within the team to prevent misunderstandings.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The university's new mentorship program aims to ______ students to pursue advanced research opportunities. a) deter b) discourage c) encourage d) prevent
  2. To build a strong corporate culture, management should actively ______ collaboration and shared learning among departments. a) inhibit b) restrict c) promote d) encourage
  3. The marketing campaign was designed to ______ potential customers to try the new eco-friendly product. a) persuade b) advise c) encourage d) compel
  4. Her exceptional performance this quarter will likely ______ her for a promotion next year. a) disqualify b) nominate c) deter d) admonish
  5. After carefully reviewing the evidence, the committee voted to ______ the proposal, citing several significant flaws. a) endorse b) approve c) reject d) sanction

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: His inspiring speech made the audience feel more confident about their ability to achieve their dreams. Rewrite: (Start with "His inspiring speech was designed to...")
  2. Original: The government introduced new policies to stimulate growth in the renewable energy sector. Rewrite: (Start with "New policies were implemented to...")
  3. Original: It is vital for project managers to nurture a supportive environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their insights. Rewrite: (Start with "It is vital for project managers to...")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. encourage
  2. encourage
  3. motivate
  4. foster

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) encourage
  2. c) promote, d) encourage
  3. a) persuade, c) encourage
  4. b) nominate
  5. c) reject

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His inspiring speech was designed to encourage the audience to pursue their dreams with greater confidence.
  2. New policies were implemented to encourage growth in the renewable energy sector.
  3. It is vital for project managers to foster a supportive environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their insights.

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