German word

motivieren

Pronunciation

IPA/motiˈviːʁən/

Meaning

  • verbmotivate

Example

Der Chef motiviert seine Mitarbeiter.

The boss motivates his employees.

Illustration for motivieren (motivate)

More examples

Der Trainer motiviert die Gruppe durch positive Rückmeldung.

The coach motivates the group through positive feedback.

Core concept

A person receives a clear reason or inner drive and starts taking action.

Common phrases

  • jemanden zu einer Aufgabe motivieren

    motivate someone to take on a task

  • zur Mitarbeit motivieren

    motivate someone to participate

  • durch positive Rückmeldung motivieren

    motivate through positive feedback

Similar words

ermutigen: Give someone confidence to act despite doubts or hesitation.
anspornen: Drive someone to work harder or make a greater effort.
inspirieren: Awaken new ideas and a strong urge to do something.
begeistern: Arouse intense excitement and make someone highly enthusiastic.

Definition in German

motivieren bedeutet, jemandem einen Grund oder Antrieb geben, damit er etwas tut.

Word origin

German motivieren is a borrowing from French motiver, related to motif and ultimately to Latin movere, meaning 'to move'.

Usage tips

  • The usual pattern is jemanden zu etwas motivieren, with the person in the accusative and zu introducing the goal or activity.

Other meanings

  • encourageverb
  • inspireverb

Opposites

  • demotivierendemotivateverb
  • entmutigendiscourageverb

Related words

Word lists with this word