Definitions

incentivize

[in-sen-ti-vahyz] / ɪnˈsɛn tɪˌvaɪz /

VERB

incite to action or greater effort often with a reward

Synonyms

STRONGEST

encourage motivate

STRONG

boost excite stimulate

WEAK

actuate energize galvanize impel incite innervate inspire lead move propel rouse tap

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deter disincentivize

STRONG

discourage

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The league is ready to change the rules that incentivize teams to lose to secure draft picks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

The province also has postproduction tax credits that incentivize animation and visual effects work.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

But some of the changes could also incentivize banks to lend still more money to nonbank lenders.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

What’s Next: Chinese policies heavily incentivize EV purchases, and China’s charging infrastructure is more developed.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

Chinese policies heavily incentivize EV purchases, and the charging infrastructure is more developed.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

Vocabulary lists containing incentivize

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