What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
urged
Example
I urged my friend to apply for the job before the deadline. [urged: verb]
Example
The doctor urged the patient to quit smoking for the sake of their health. [urged: past tense]
encouraged
Example
My parents encouraged me to pursue my dreams and never give up. [encouraged: verb]
Example
The teacher's positive feedback encouraged the student to keep working hard. [encouraged: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Encouraged is more commonly used than urged in everyday language. Encouraged is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while urged is less common and tends to be used in more urgent or demanding situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between urged and encouraged?
Both urged and encouraged can be used in formal or informal situations, but urged may be perceived as more forceful or aggressive, making it less appropriate for very formal settings.
