encouraged
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encouraged
Describes the feeling of having more courage or hope to do something because of encouragement or support.
Ermutigt durch den ersten Erfolg, machte sie mit dem Projekt weiter.
Encouraged by her first success, she continued with the project.
The word is the past participle of the verb 'ermutigen' (to encourage). It is derived from the noun 'der Mut' (courage). The prefix 'er-' often indicates the beginning of a process, here the process of giving someone courage.
Ihre guten Noten haben sie ermutigt, sich für ein Stipendium zu bewerben.
Her good grades encouraged her to apply for a scholarship.
As an adjective, 'ermutigt' (encouraged) is often used with the preposition 'durch' (+ accusative) to name the reason for the feeling. This construction can also stand at the beginning of a sentence to explain the following action.
Ermutigt durch das positive Feedback, präsentierte er seine Idee dem Chef.
Encouraged by the positive feedback, he presented his idea to the boss.
The feeling of being 'ermutigt' (encouraged) often arises from positive experiences or help from others. Typical triggers are therefore being encouraged 'durch den Erfolg' (by the success), 'durch die Unterstützung' (by the support), or 'durch Zuspruch' (by encouragement).
Sie fühlte sich durch den Zuspruch ihrer Familie sehr ermutigt.
She felt very encouraged by her family's support.
confident / optimistic
'zuversichtlich' and 'ermutigt' can both express that someone has more hope or confidence. The difference lies in the reason for this feeling. 'zuversichtlich' generally describes a positive expectation: you believe that something will go well. 'ermutigt' means that someone has gained more courage through support, kind words, or a positive sign. So 'ermutigt' is especially fitting when someone has previously helped, praised, or encouraged the person. 'zuversichtlich' does not necessarily need this external reason.
Nach dem Lob der Lehrerin fühlte sich Mehmet ermutigt und meldete sich öfter.
After the teacher's praise, Mehmet felt encouraged and raised his hand more often.
Nach den guten Testergebnissen ist die Ärztin zuversichtlich.
After the good test results, the doctor is confident.