Synonyms of motivation

motivation

noun

ˌmō-tə-ˈvā-shən 

as in incentive

something that arouses action or activity

fear of failing should be plenty of motivation to study for the test

Synonyms & Similar Words

• incentive
• impetus
• encouragement
• stimulus
• momentum
• impulse
• reason
• boost
• catalyst
• spur
• stimulant
• provocation
• fuel
• instigation
• yeast
• motive
• goad
• cause
• incitement
• shot in the arm
• incitation
• consideration
• inducement
• invitation
• spark
• grounds
• antecedent
• occasion
• catalyzer

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• disincentive
• counterincentive

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of motivation

The debt snowball method focuses on paying off the smallest balances first to build motivation. — Rebecca Safier, USA Today, 22 Sep. 2026

But perhaps more than the physical similarities between the products and the menu, Charlotte Palermino, cofounder and chief brand officer of Dieux, was drawn to the message and motivation behind Fishwife. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 21 Sep. 2026

Alternatively, the motivation to start a route could be much less scientific. — Chris Dong, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Sep. 2026

Joe has always been ruthless, but never quite as tunnel-visioned in her motivations. — Andy Andersen, Vulture, 20 Sep. 2026