The Opposite(Antonym) of “encourage”
The antonyms of encourage are discourage, dissuade, and dishearten. These words convey the opposite meaning of encourage, which is to inspire, motivate, or give hope.
Explore all Antonyms of “encourage”
Definitions and Examples of discourage, dissuade, dishearten
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To cause someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm.
Example
His harsh criticism only served to discourage her from pursuing her dreams.
To persuade someone not to do something.
Example
Her parents tried to dissuade her from dropping out of college, but she was determined to pursue her passion.
To make someone feel discouraged or dispirited.
Example
The constant rejections from publishers started to dishearten the aspiring writer.
Key Differences: discourage vs dissuade vs dishearten
- 1Discourage implies actively causing someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm.
- 2Dissuade implies persuading someone not to do something.
- 3Dishearten implies making someone feel discouraged or dispirited.
Effective Usage of discourage, dissuade, dishearten
- 1Giving Advice: Use discourage and dissuade to advise against a course of action.
- 2Motivating Others: Use encourage to inspire and motivate others to achieve their goals.
- 3Expressing Empathy: Use dishearten to express understanding and support when someone is feeling discouraged.
Remember this!
The antonyms of encourage are discourage, dissuade, and dishearten. Use discourage and dissuade to advise against a course of action, encourage to inspire and motivate, and dishearten to express empathy and support when someone is feeling discouraged.
