nudge

To nudge someone or something means to gently encourage them in a particular direction, either physically or figuratively. It's about subtly influencing behavior without restricting freedom of choice—a concept popularized by behavioral economist Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein in their book Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness.

A physical nudge is straightforward—a light push with your elbow to get someone's attention. But the word really shines when used metaphorically. A friend might nudge you towards trying a new hobby by casually mentioning how much they enjoy it. Policymakers can nudge citizens toward healthier eating habits by placing fruits and vegetables at eye level in cafeterias, making them more appealing than less healthy options.

The key to a nudge is that it doesn't force a decision; it simply makes one option slightly more attractive. It preserves freedom of choice while subtly guiding people towards outcomes considered beneficial. You might nudge your child toward completing their homework by offering praise for effort, rather than demanding results.

So whether it's a gentle physical touch or a subtle influence on behavior, to nudge is to encourage with a light touch, respecting autonomy while steering towards a desired outcome.