to encourage
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to encourage
To encourage or motivate someone to do something. Often used in the construction 'jemanden zu etwas ermuntern' (to encourage someone to do something).
Ihre Freunde ermunterten sie, sich für die Stelle zu bewerben.
Her friends encouraged her to apply for the position.
The verb is derived from the adjective 'munter' (lively, awake). The prefix 'er-' here describes bringing about a state. So 'ermuntern' (to encourage/cheer up) literally means to make someone 'munter' (lively/awake) — either more motivated or more alert.
Ein freundliches Wort kann einen traurigen Menschen oft ermuntern.
A kind word can often cheer up a sad person.
'Ermuntern' (to encourage) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'er-' always stays connected to the verb stem, including in a main clause or in the past participle (ermuntert).
Der Lehrer ermuntert seine Schüler, Fragen zu stellen.
The teacher encourages his students to ask questions.
When you encourage someone to carry out a specific action, the construction 'jemanden zu etwas ermuntern' (to encourage someone to do something) is used. After 'zu' comes either a noun in the dative or an infinitive at the end of the sentence.
Ich möchte dich zu einer Teilnahme am Wettbewerb ermuntern.
I would like to encourage you to participate in the competition.
'Ermuntern' (to encourage) belongs to a somewhat elevated or written style. It often sounds a little gentler and more formal.
Wir möchten Sie ermuntern, von unserem Angebot Gebrauch zu machen.
We would like to encourage you to make use of our offer.
to motivate
'motivieren' and 'ermuntern' can both mean giving someone the courage or encouragement to do something. 'motivieren' emphasizes the drive for a task or goal. It fits well when someone is given reasons, goals, or energy. 'ermuntern' often sounds a bit gentler and more personal. You 'ermuntern' someone when you encourage them kindly or cheer them up, especially if they are unsure, sad, or tired. The words can be confused because both express encouragement. When performance and goals are involved, 'motivieren' often fits better. When comfort or friendly encouragement is important, 'ermuntern' works well.
Die Eltern ermuntern ihre Tochter, trotz ihrer Angst beim Konzert mitzusingen.
The parents encourage their daughter to sing along at the concert despite her fear.
Die Aussicht auf einen freien Nachmittag motiviert Paul, seine Aufgaben schnell zu erledigen.
The prospect of a free afternoon motivates Paul to finish his tasks quickly.