motivation

[ˌməʊtɪˈveɪʃ(ə)n]

motivation Definition

  • 1the reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way
  • 2the general desire or willingness of someone to do something

Using motivation: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "motivation" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Money is not his primary motivation.

  • Example

    The coach's motivational speech inspired the team to win the game.

  • Example

    She lacks motivation to exercise regularly.

  • Example

    His motivation for studying hard is to get into a good university.

motivation Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for motivation

Idioms Using motivation

  • the reason or purpose for doing something

    Example

    The motivation behind his decision to quit his job was to start his own business.

  • something that provides the incentive or drive to do something

    Example

    The promise of a bonus was a strong motivation factor for the employees to work harder.

  • motivation killer

    something that decreases or destroys one's motivation

    Example

    Negative feedback can be a motivation killer for some people.

Phrases with motivation

  • a state of not having the desire or willingness to do something

    Example

    Her lack of motivation prevented her from achieving her goals.

  • self-motivation

    the ability to motivate oneself without external influence

    Example

    He has a strong sense of self-motivation and doesn't need anyone else to push him to succeed.

  • a letter written by a job applicant explaining why they are suitable for the position and what motivates them to apply

    Example

    She wrote a compelling motivation letter that helped her stand out among other applicants.

Origins of motivation

from Latin 'motivus', meaning 'a moving cause'

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Summary: motivation in Brief

The term 'motivation' [ˌməʊtɪˈveɪʃ(ə)n] refers to the reason or willingness to act or behave in a certain way. It can be internal or external, as in 'self-motivation' or 'motivation letter.' 'Lack of motivation' describes the absence of desire or willingness to do something, while 'motivation factor' denotes something that provides incentive or drive. The idiom 'motivation behind something' refers to the reason or purpose for doing something.

How do native speakers use this expression?