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motivational

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /mˌəʊtɪvˈeɪʃənəl/

US

  • /ˌmoʊtəˈveɪʃənəl/

Description

Something that's motivational provides the reason or drive for someone to do something. It's like a little spark that ignites action! Think of a coach giving a pep talk before a big game—those words are meant to be motivational, pushing the team to give their all. A motivational speaker aims to inspire an audience, while a motivational poster might hang in your office to remind you of your goals. It's not just about feeling good; it's about wanting to achieve something.

The context is usually positive—we often talk about motivational speeches, books, or videos. But hard times can also push people forward. Going through a difficult experience and coming out stronger can give someone a strong reason to keep trying. Think of the story of someone who lost everything and then built a new life—that can feel deeply motivational.

Examples

  1. 1

    Sports

    The coach gave a short motivational speech before the game.

  2. 2

    Personal inspiration

    She keeps a few motivational quotes above her desk.

  3. 3

    Workplace training

    The company invited a motivational speaker to talk about confidence at work.

  4. 4

    App design

    The app uses badges and progress bars as motivational tools.

  5. 5

    Workplace motivation

    Money is not the only motivational factor at work; people also want respect and flexibility.

    • Phrase

      motivational factor

      something that affects why people want to do something

  6. 6

    Counseling

    The counselor used motivational interviewing to help him talk through his drinking.

    • Domain

      motivational interviewing

      a counseling method that helps people find their own reasons to change

See also

adjectiveintended to encourage, inspire, or increase someone's drive to act

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Do not confuse

Used with (collocations)

  • motivational speaker
  • motivational quote
  • motivational speech
  • motivational interviewing

Word family

Explore

  • encouragement
  • self-improvement

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • motivationaladjective