What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enabling
Example
The new software is enabling us to work more efficiently. [enabling: verb]
Example
The government is committed to enabling access to education for all citizens. [enabling: gerund or present participle]
encouraging
Example
Her teacher's encouraging words helped her to believe in herself. [encouraging: adjective]
Example
The coach encouraged the team to keep pushing themselves during the game. [encouraged: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Encouraging is more commonly used than enabling in everyday language. Encouraging is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while enabling is less common and often associated with specific situations, such as disability or addiction.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between enabling and encouraging?
Both enabling and encouraging can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, enabling may be more commonly used in professional or technical settings, while encouraging is more commonly used in personal or social contexts.
