the force or energy that makes something happen or happen more quickly, a stimulus or encouragement resulting in increased activity

gather impetus, give impetus to, lose impetus

give (someone/something) impetus, loss of impetus, impetus for change

Formal and Informal Expressions of impetus

In different contexts, you can replace 'impetus' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'momentum, stimulus' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'push, boost' is a commonplace synonym.

impetus: Explore its Definition & Usage

impetus Definition

1the force or energy that makes something happen or happen more quickly
2a stimulus or encouragement resulting in increased activity

Using impetus: Examples

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

Example
The recent scandal gave impetus to the reform movement.
Example
The new CEO's arrival provided an impetus for change.
Example
The team's victory gave them the impetus they needed to keep going.
Example
The government's investment provided the impetus for economic growth.

impetus Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for impetus

Antonyms for impetus

Idioms Using impetus

gather impetus
to gain momentum or speed over time
Example
The project gathered impetus as more people became interested in it.
give impetus to
to provide the motivation or encouragement needed for something to happen or progress
Example
The new policy gave impetus to the company's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.
lose impetus
to lose momentum or speed over time
Example
The team lost impetus after their star player was injured.

Phrases with impetus

give (someone/something) impetus
provide motivation or encouragement for someone or something to take action
Example
The new project gave the company the impetus it needed to expand its operations.
loss of impetus
a decrease in the force or energy that drives something forward, resulting in a slowdown or stagnation
Example
The team's loss of impetus in the second half cost them the game.
impetus for change
a catalyst or driving force that inspires or motivates people to make changes or take action
Example
The recent protests served as an impetus for change in the country's political system.

Origins of impetus

from Latin 'impetere', meaning 'to attack'

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Summary: impetus in Brief

The term 'impetus' [ˈɪmpɪtəs] refers to the force or energy that drives something forward, often resulting in increased activity or momentum. It can be a stimulus or encouragement for change, exemplified by 'The new CEO's arrival provided an impetus for change.' 'Impetus' extends into phrases like 'give impetus to,' and idioms like 'gather impetus,' denoting gaining momentum, and 'lose impetus,' implying a slowdown.