encouraging

adjective

en·​cour·​ag·​ing in-ˈkər-i-jiŋ 

-ˈkə-ri-, 

en-

: giving hope or promise

encouraging news

encouragingly

in-ˈkər-i-jiŋ-lē 

-ˈkə-ri-, 

en-

adverb

Synonyms of encouraging

• promising
• bright
• optimistic

Examples of encouraging in a Sentence

We've just heard some encouraging news.

encouraging signs that the economy is improving

Recent Examples on the Web

While McVay could surprise bettors and use Ferguson less often this week, his usage in the Divisional Round and in the previous meeting against the Seahawks is encouraging for his receiving outlook on Sunday. —Josh Shepardson, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026

Ellis said IonQ’s increasing cash balance over the past year is encouraging. —Pia Singh, CNBC, 22 Jan. 2026

After Dart’s encouraging rookie season, the Giants are not in the market for a quarterback this time around. —Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 21 Jan. 2026

This potential can be both daunting and encouraging for prospective investors – and advantageous for those who are already invested in the metal or considering adding more to their portfolio right now. —Matt Richardson, CBS News, 20 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for encouraging

• discouraging