1. the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope
2. something that makes someone more likely to do something

Examples

• Her teacher's encouragement helped her improve her grades.
• The team needed some encouragement after losing three games in a row.
• With a little encouragement, he decided to apply for the job.
• The scholarship program provides encouragement for students to pursue science careers.
• She offered words of encouragement to her nervous friend.
• The coach's encouragement motivated the players to work harder.
• Financial encouragement from the government helped small businesses survive.