v. Function: verb
1 to fill with courage or strength of purpose especially in preparation for a hard task FF1C; the teacher's praise encouraged the student to try harder FF1E;
Synonyms: animate, cheer, chirk (up), embolden, enhearten, hearten, inspirit, nerve, ||pearten (up), steel, strengthen; compare SUPPORT 5
Related Words: assure, reassure; boost, excite, galvanize, pique, provoke, quicken, stimulate; buck up, buoy (up), energize, fortify, invigorate; rally, stir
Idioms: give a shot in the arm
Contrasted Words: deject, depress, discourage, dishearten, dispirit; affright, caution, frighten
Antonyms: discourage
2 to give the support of one's approval to FF1C; the government openly encouraged East-West détente FF1E;
Synonyms: advocate, countenance, favor
Related Words: approve, back, endorse, go (for), sanction, subscribe (to); abet, assist, reinforce, support, sustain; incite, instigate; induce, prevail l
Idioms: lend one's countenance to, lend one's favor ( or support) to, smile upon
Contrasted Words: deter, dissuade, divert, hinder; inhibit, restrain; disapprove
Antonyms: discourage
3
Synonyms: ADVANCE 1, forward, foster, further, promote, serve
Related Words: patronize, push, support; develop, improve, subsidize
Contrasted Words: weaken; check, retard, slow
Antonyms: discourage