Laxi Dictionary

American Dictionary

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Definition motivate in American English

motivate verb

[transitive] verb
/ˈmoʊtɪˌveɪt/
1

to make someone feel determined to do something or enthusiastic about doing it

Example

She knows how to motivate people.

Example

He was primarily motivated by the desire for profit.

Example

We must motivate students to take charge of their own learning.

Synonyms and related words
encourage persuade convince inspire attract interest
2

to make someone behave in a particular way

Example

The crime appears to have been motivated by hatred.

Synonyms and related words
influence motivate condition
Definition motivate in American English