to inspire
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to inspire
To inspire or motivate someone, or give them new drive and momentum. It describes a positive emotional or creative impulse.
Das Lob des Professors beflügelte die Studentin, ihre Forschung mit noch mehr Eifer fortzusetzen.
The professor's praise inspired the student to continue her research with even greater enthusiasm.
The word 'beflügeln' (to inspire) is a beautiful metaphor. It derives from 'der Flügel' (the wing) and literally means to give someone wings. So it describes a state in which you feel light and motivated, as if you could fly.
Dein Zuspruch hat mich wirklich beflügelt.
Your encouragement really inspired me.
'Beflügeln' (to inspire) is an inseparable verb because it begins with 'be-'. The prefix stays firmly attached to the verb in all sentence forms and is not placed at the end of the sentence.
Der Erfolg beflügelte das gesamte Team.
The success inspired the entire team.
This verb is often used with abstract nouns. Typical combinations are 'die Fantasie beflügeln' (to inspire the imagination), 'die Kreativität beflügeln' (to inspire creativity), or 'den Ehrgeiz beflügeln' (to spur ambition).
Die Reise nach Japan beflügelte seine Fantasie für neue Geschichten.
The trip to Japan inspired his imagination for new stories.
'Beflügeln' (to inspire) belongs to an elevated, rather poetic style of language. You find it more often in written language, in speeches, or when you want to express strong, positive emotions.
Die Musik beflügelte ihre Seele.
The music inspired her soul.
to motivate
'motivieren' and 'beflügeln' can both express that someone gets new drive. 'motivieren' is more general and fits many situations, such as work, learning, or sports. It can happen through reasons, praise, or goals. 'beflügeln' sounds more figurative and stronger. It often describes positive momentum, enthusiasm, or creative energy. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with drive. When it is objectively about encouragement, 'motivieren' fits better. When something noticeably excites someone and drives them from within, 'beflügeln' fits.
Das Lob der Chefin beflügelt Anna und sie arbeitet mit neuer Freude weiter.
The boss's praise inspires Anna, and she keeps working with renewed joy.
Ein guter Plan kann mich motivieren, jeden Tag ein wenig Deutsch zu üben.
A good plan can motivate me to practice a little German every day.