MOTIVATES Synonyms: 74 Similar and Opposite Words

motivates

verb

present tense third-person singular of motivate

as in encourages

to rouse to action or activity The presence of treats motivated the dogs to obey their owner's commands. They drove a campaign to motivate voters to show up to the polls.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of motivates Active learning also allows students to follow their own curiosity, which motivates them to learn and remember concepts. —

Shelley Mitchell, The Conversation, 23 Apr. 2026 Amid all their attacks and counter-attacks, what motivates each aggrieved party comes to light, painting a rich, empathetic portrait of lives lived under immense pressure — and the illogical outlets that sometimes become our only means of relief. —

Ben Travers, IndieWire, 16 Apr. 2026 Reflecting on what motivates continued engagement, Wilbur offers a perspective grounded in impact rather than immediacy. —

Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2026 Colorado’s quest for another Stanley Cup has led the Avs to trade away many prospects and draft picks, which both motivates the Avs to be aggressive in the UDFA market and makes the franchise an attractive landing spot, as evidenced by the success of some of their signings. —

Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 11 Apr. 2026 Shaun’s content still motivates, but it is now complemented by morning cuddle photos. —

Sierra Leone Starks, Parents, 2 Apr. 2026 Not sure if Hafley meant more than an introduction, maybe an in-depth conversation, digging into topics like what motivates a player. —

Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 31 Mar. 2026 Ours is not to wonder what motivates him to keep rolling at spooky full speed, but to listen to what the man sings, and to hope to keep winning the lottery. —

Chris Willman, Variety, 28 Mar. 2026 Know that a leader is someone who listens well and who motivates others toward greatness. —

Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 4 Mar. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for motivates

Verb

The council also encourages Gary leadership to participate in any IURC proceedings and asks for the Indiana General Assembly to biannually review utility delivery charge actions and pursue reforms.

— Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026
Channeling Abbie Hoffman, Tolentino encourages people to steal from her own employer, The New Yorker, but does not explain which high crimes David Remnick has committed to earn this comeuppance.

— Graeme Wood, The Atlantic, 24 Apr. 2026