WordGarden.iomotivational
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˌəʊtɪvˈeɪʃənəl/
US
- /ˌmoʊtəˈveɪʃənəl/
Meanings
Adjective
intended to inspire confidence, enthusiasm, or action
relating to motivation as a psychological or behavioral factor
Beyond the definition
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.
The word motivational describes something that inspires or encourages others to take action, pursue goals, or achieve positive change. It goes beyond simple encouragement; it taps into underlying desires, values, and aspirations. A truly motivational force doesn't just tell you what to do, but helps you understand why you should do it.
You'll often encounter "motivational" paired with other words like "speaker," "quote," "video," or "poster." These are all tools designed to build energy and drive in a person. For example, a motivational speaker might share personal stories of overcoming adversity to inspire an audience. A motivational quote can serve as a daily reminder of your potential.
However, motivational isn't limited to formal settings. Any experience that sparks a desire for improvement or change can be considered motivational. Seeing someone else succeed, reading an inspiring biography, or even facing a personal challenge can all act as powerful motivators.
It's important to note a slight nuance: something can be motivating without necessarily being positive in its delivery. A stern warning from a parent about the consequences of failing could be motivational, even if it isn't delivered with warmth. The key is that it creates an internal drive for change.
So, whether it's a carefully crafted speech, a simple act of kindness, or a personal realization, anything that fuels your ambition and pushes you toward your goals can be described as motivational. It is the force behind progress, growth, and achievement.
Examples
- 1
Sports
The coach gave a short motivational speech before the game.
- 2
Personal inspiration
She keeps a few motivational quotes above her desk.
- 3
Workplace training
The company invited a motivational speaker to talk about confidence at work.
- 4
App design
The app uses badges and progress bars as motivational tools.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Workplace motivation
Money is not the only motivational factor at work; people also want respect and flexibility.
- Phrasemotivational factor
something that affects why people want to do something
- 6
Counseling
The counselor used motivational interviewing to help him talk through his drinking.
- Domainmotivational interviewing
a counseling method that helps people find their own reasons to change
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- galvanizing
- uplifting
- incentivizing
Contrast
- discouraging
- demotivating
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