Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Inspired with confidence; given hope or support: Describes a person who has been given emotional or psychological support, leading to increased confidence, optimism, or motivation to continue or undertake an action.

Usage

The adjective "encouraged" is used to describe the state of feeling more hopeful or confident because of support, praise, or positive developments. It typically follows a linking verb like "be," "feel," or "seem."

Examples

• Adjective:
  • She felt encouraged by her teacher's positive feedback on her essay.
  • The team was encouraged by their early success in the tournament.
  • Despite the challenges, he remained encouraged and continued his research.

Advanced Usage

• "to be encouraged to do something": To be given support or motivation to perform a specific action.
  • Employees are encouraged to share their ideas in the weekly meeting.
• "to be encouraged by something": To have one's confidence or hope boosted by a particular event or fact.
  • Investors were encouraged by the company's strong quarterly report.

Variants and Related Words

• Encourage (verb): To give support, confidence, or hope to someone.
  • Her coach always encourages her to do her best.
• Encouragement (noun): The action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope.
  • A few words of encouragement can make a big difference.
• Encouraging (adjective): Giving someone support, confidence, or hope.
  • The initial test results were very encouraging.

Synonyms

• Heartened: Made to feel more cheerful or confident.
• Uplifted: Raised to a more positive emotional state.
• Inspired: Filled with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially creative.
• Buoyed (up): Kept afloat or lifted in spirits; supported.

Antonyms

• Discouraged: Having lost confidence or enthusiasm; disheartened.
• Dismayed: Struck with sudden disappointment or distress.
• Demoralized: Having lost confidence or hope; disheartened.

Adjective

1. inspired with confidence
   • felt bucked up by his success