Synonyms of motivation

motivation

noun

ˌmō-tə-ˈvā-shən 

as in incentive

something that arouses action or activity

fear of failing should be plenty of motivation to study for the test

Synonyms & Similar Words

• incentive
• impetus
• encouragement
• stimulus
• momentum
• impulse
• reason
• boost
• catalyst
• spur
• stimulant
• provocation
• fuel
• instigation
• yeast
• motive
• goad
• cause
• incitement
• shot in the arm
• incitation
• consideration
• inducement
• invitation
• spark
• grounds
• antecedent
• occasion
• catalyzer

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• disincentive
• counterincentive

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of motivation

When asked about the couple’s motivation, Hochman said that was part of the ongoing investigation, as was the parentage of each child. — ABC News, 6 Oct. 2026

Continue reading … CURIOSITY DRIVEN — New book on Elon Musk examines the billionaire’s mind, motivation and making life multi-planetary. — FOXNews.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Florida, meanwhile, used Mizzou’s last-second 33-31 win in 2023 as locker-room motivation. — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 4 Oct. 2026

With In the Heart of the South, the motivations of the thriller’s main characters, Ivalu and Sesi, spring from widespread trauma in communities like Nunavut and across Canada among its First Nations peoples. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 4 Oct. 2026