discourage

verb

Synonyms and Antonyms of DISCOURAGE

to lessen the courage or confidence of <I didn't let losing discourage me from trying again>

Synonyms chill, daunt, demoralize, dishearten, dismay, dispirit, frustrate, unman, unnerve

Phrases throw cold water on

Near Antonyms buoy (up), cheer, gladden; animate, enliven, invigorate; enforce, fortify, reinforce (also reenforce), strengthen; assure, reassure; boost, energize, excite, galvanize, inspire, lift, provoke, quicken, rally, stimulate, stir

Antonyms embolden, encourage, hearten, nerve, steel

to steer (a person) from an activity or course of action <the higher fines may help discourage drivers from speeding on the highway>

Synonyms deter, dissuade, inhibit

Related Words divert; unsell; repel

Near Antonyms egg (on), exhort, goad, prod, urge; impel, induce, prompt

Antonyms encourage, persuade

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