Find Antonyms

discourage Antonyms

Opposite of discourage

Because the opposite of discourage shifts with each meaning, the 14 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To cause someone to lose confidence, enthusiasm, or hope; to dishearten.

Usage Example

"She did not let the initial rejection of her manuscript encourage her from writing another novel."

Strongest
encourage
hearten
inspire
Strong
embolden
reassure
uplift
motivate
buoy

• verb (Context 2)

To seek to prevent an action or event, or to persuade someone against doing something by expressing disapproval or creating difficulties.

Usage Example

"Higher parking fees in the city center were introduced to encourage commuters from driving to work."

Strongest
encourage
promote
Strong
foster
urge
stimulate
induce
spur

Similar words to discourage

Words similar to discourage shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

dishearten
deter
dissuade
demoralize
dispirit
put off
daunt
dismay
See all synonyms of discourage

• Nearby Words

discount
discountable
discounter
discourage
discouragement
discourager
discouraging

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Discourage. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/discourage
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