What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spur
Example
The promise of a bonus spurred the employees to work harder. [spurred: past tense verb]
Example
The rider used his spurs to urge the horse to go faster. [spurs: noun]
Example
The presence of sunlight spurs the growth of plants. [spurs: verb]
impetus
Example
The new project provided the impetus for the company's growth. [impetus: noun]
Example
The invention of the printing press was the impetus for the spread of knowledge. [impetus: noun]
Example
The coach's pep talk gave the team the impetus they needed to win the game. [impetus: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spur is more commonly used than impetus in everyday language, making it a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Impetus is more formal and academic, making it more suitable for professional or scholarly writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spur and impetus?
Impetus is more formal and academic than spur, making it more appropriate for professional or scholarly writing. Spur is more casual and informal, making it suitable for everyday language and conversation.
