encourage
/ɪnˈkɜːrɪdʒ/
verb
- To give someone support, confidence, or hope to do something.
- She encouraged her friend to apply for the scholarship.
- My parents always encourage me to follow my dreams.
- The coach encouraged the players to keep trying even after they lost the game.
- To make something more likely to happen or develop.
- Reading to children encourages a love of books.
- Warm weather encourages the growth of plants.
- The new policy encourages people to use public transportation.
Antonyms