Definition

1. Noun:
   • A driving force; something that makes a process or activity happen or happen more quickly: "Impetus" refers to the energy or motivation that initiates movement or progress.
   • The force or energy with which a body moves: In physics, "impetus" describes the momentum or driving force of a moving object.

Usage and Examples

• As a noun (driving force):

  • The grant provided the impetus for the new research project. (The grant supplied the motivating force that started the project.)
  • Her encouraging words gave him the impetus to apply for the job. (Her words supplied the motivation for his action.)

• As a noun (physical force):

  • The impetus from the collision sent the car skidding. (The force from the impact caused the car to skid.)
  • The rolling ball lost its impetus and slowed to a stop. (The ball's driving force diminished, causing it to stop.)

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "To give/add/impart impetus to something": To provide the energy or motivation for something to start or accelerate.
  • The new evidence gave fresh impetus to the investigation.
• "To gain/gather impetus": To accumulate energy or momentum.
  • The political movement gathered impetus throughout the summer.

Variants and Related Words

• Impetuous (adj): Acting or done quickly and without thought or care; impulsive.
  • He made an impetuous decision.
• Impetuously (adv): In an impetuous manner.
  • She acted impetuously.

Synonyms

• Momentum: The impetus gained by a moving object; the driving force or advancement of a process.
• Catalyst: A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
• Stimulus: Something that encourages activity or progress.
• Thrust: A sudden or violent push; the main point or theme.

Antonyms

• Deterrent: A thing that discourages or prevents action.
• Hindrance: An obstacle or impediment to progress.
• Brake: Something that slows or stops motion or progress.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "A fresh/new impetus": A new source of energy or motivation that revitalizes an effort.
  • The team needed a fresh impetus to complete the marathon project.
• "The main impetus behind something": The primary driving force or reason for something.
  • Economic concern was the main impetus behind the policy change.

Noun

1. the act of applying force suddenly
   • the impulse knocked him over
2. a force that moves something along