adjective
encouraging
Giving confidence or reason for hope.
Her encouraging words give me the confidence to try again.
Etymology
Old French corage connects the heart with courage. Encouraging words or actions put heart into a person, supplying the confidence or hope needed to continue.
More examples
- The latest test results are encouraging.
- He gives her an encouraging smile before her speech.
- It is encouraging to see so many volunteers arrive.
Forms
encouraging · more encouraging · most encouraging
encourage verb — To give someone confidence or hope.
encouragement noun — Support that gives confidence or hope.
Similar words
- promising
- Suggests likely future success rather than directly building confidence.
- reassuring
- Emphasizes easing worry rather than inspiring hope or confidence.