What is the difference between inspire and motivate?

Inspire affects feelings and ideas. Motivate gives a reason or push to act.

Is inspire a formal word?

It is common in speech and writing. It works well in academic and professional English.

Can I say 'inspire me to do'?

Yes. This is a very natural structure: 'Her story inspired me to try again.'

← Dictionary

inspire

/ɪnˈspaɪə/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To make someone want to do something creative, good, or difficult. It can also mean to give someone an idea or feeling.

Her speech inspired me to study harder.
This movie inspires hope in many people.
The view inspired a new painting.

Adinary Nuance

Inspire is stronger and more uplifting than encourage. You inspire someone when you move their mind or feelings deeply. It is also more positive and creative than motivate, which often means giving practical reason to act.

In other languages

Vietnamese: truyền cảm hứng
Spanish: inspirar
Chinese: 激励
Japanese: 刺激する
Korean: 영감을 주다

Etymology

Inspire comes from Latin inspirare, meaning 'to breathe into'. It entered English through Old French in the Middle Ages.

Common phrases

inspire confidenceinspire hopeinspire othersbe inspired by

Synonyms

motivate encourage stimulate

Related words

inspiration creative aspiration admire

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between inspire and motivate?: Inspire affects feelings and ideas. Motivate gives a reason or push to act.
Is inspire a formal word?: It is common in speech and writing. It works well in academic and professional English.
Can I say 'inspire me to do'?: Yes. This is a very natural structure: 'Her story inspired me to try again.'