stimulus (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈstɪmjʊləs/

Definition

Something that causes or encourages activity, interest, or growth.

Examples

• The government introduced tax cuts as an economic stimulus.

• A sudden noise can be a powerful stimulus to a sleeping person.

• The teacher used a variety of teaching methods to provide a stimulus for her students.

How to Use stimulus

stimulus for (prepositional phrase)

Something that causes or encourages activity, interest, or growth in a particular area. — "The discovery of oil provided a stimulus for economic development in the region."

stimulus to (prepositional phrase)

Something that causes or encourages a particular reaction or response. — "The award acted as a stimulus to his creativity."

Synonyms of stimulus

Words with a similar meaning to stimulus:

• incentive
• impetus
• catalyst
• prompt

Antonyms of stimulus

Words with the opposite meaning to stimulus:

• deterrent
• inhibition

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