are encouraged by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are encouraged by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that someone is motivated or inspired by something or someone else. Example: "Students are encouraged by their teachers to pursue their passions and interests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"We are encouraged by these findings".

The Guardian - Business

We are encouraged by the response to these efforts".

The New York Times

No doubt they are encouraged by what they've seen.

The New York Times

"We are encouraged by what we heard," Mr. Liu said.

The New York Times

Some liberals, nonetheless, are encouraged by his father's reformist credentials.

The Economist

Some educators are encouraged by the current configuration.

The New York Times

Similar exercises in free thinking are encouraged by Bridgette Ashton's alternative map of Plymouth.

The Guardian - Arts

Then, squatters, whom ranchers charge are encouraged by Mr. Chávez's harangues against landowners, occupied some farms.

The New York Times

In that regard, we are encouraged by the many statements of support that have been expressed.

The Guardian

A spokesman for the British Embassy said today, "We are encouraged by the progress made".

The New York Times

They are encouraged by that scorching September, believing it could happen again.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are encouraged by", ensure that the subject experiencing the encouragement is clearly identified, and the source of the encouragement is explicitly stated. This makes the sentence more precise and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid vague or unclear references to what is providing the encouragement. For example, instead of saying "They are encouraged", specify "They are encouraged by the positive feedback from their peers".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are encouraged by" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject receives motivation or positive influence from a specified source. As Ludwig AI suggests, it expresses that someone is motivated or inspired by something or someone else.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are encouraged by" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that communicates a feeling of motivation, support, or optimism stemming from an external source. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It appears frequently in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While it is safe to use, being specific about the source of encouragement and considering alternatives such as "are motivated by" or "are inspired by" can enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are motivated by

Focuses on the internal drive resulting from something, rather than just being cheered on.

are inspired by

Highlights the creative or aspirational influence of something.

are heartened by

Emphasizes the emotional uplift or reassurance received from something.

are buoyed by

Suggests that something is lifting spirits or providing support during a difficult time.

are stimulated by

Highlights the activating or energizing effect of something.

are spurred on by

Implies an active push or impetus provided by something.

are emboldened by

Suggests a boost in courage or confidence due to something.

are reassured by

Focuses on the sense of security or certainty gained from something.

are sustained by

Emphasizes the ongoing support or maintenance provided by something.

derive encouragement from

A more formal way of saying that something is a source of support.

FAQs

How can I use "are encouraged by" in a sentence?

The phrase "are encouraged by" indicates that someone feels motivated or supported due to something. For example, "Students are encouraged by their teacher's positive feedback" or "Researchers are encouraged by the promising results of the study".

What are some alternatives to "are encouraged by"?

You can use alternatives like "are motivated by", "are inspired by", or "are heartened by" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "are encouraged by" or "are encouraged to"?

"Are encouraged by" means being made to feel more confident or hopeful because of something, while "are encouraged to" means being advised or urged to do something. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

Can "are encouraged by" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "are encouraged by" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing reactions to developments or progress. However, ensure the sentence structure remains clear and avoids ambiguity. In contexts where brevity is valued, consider stronger verbs like “motivated” or “inspired” if they fit the meaning.