function as a motivator

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "function as a motivator" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that serves to inspire or encourage action or effort in others. Example: "The success stories of previous participants can function as a motivator for new applicants to join the program."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If you've determined that a threat would indeed serve your interests, make sure the threat will function as a motivator, not a punishment.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Indeed, we found that experiencing health improvements after initiating the gluten-free diet functioned as a motivator for adherence.

BMC Public Health

Friendships went beyond providing psychological support and reducing anxiety during trying times; they also functioned as a motivator for improving skills where possible.

Conflict and Health

Father, FGD Having internalized the risk for future complications functioned as a strong motivator for adhering to the gluten-free diet.

BMC Public Health

Use fear as a motivator to spring yourself into action.

Huffington Post

Use food as a motivator as you study.

WikiHow

If reinforcement isn't working for you, use punishment as a motivator.

WikiHow

Use the family dog as a motivator.

HuffPost

Ms. Mulrooney serves as a motivator.

The New York Times

Turns out she's more impactful as a motivator.

The New York Times

But there's nothing like inspiration as a motivator.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "function as a motivator", ensure the subject clearly performs the action of motivating, providing a clear and understandable cause-and-effect relationship within the sentence.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "function as a motivator" can sound somewhat stiff. Consider using more dynamic verbs like 'inspire', 'drive', or 'encourage' for a more engaging tone, especially in less formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "function as a motivator" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the role or purpose of something in causing someone to act or feel a certain way. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

25%

News & Media

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "function as a motivator" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe something that encourages action. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its relatively low frequency suggests it's not the most common way to express this idea. Alternatives such as "act as a stimulus" or "serve as an impetus" might offer more dynamism. Though applicable across contexts, it's most frequently encountered in scientific, news, and academic writing. When employing this phrase, clarity in the cause-and-effect relationship is key, and considering the tone is essential to avoid stiffness, especially in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act as a stimulus

Focuses more on initiating action rather than ongoing motivation.

serve as an impetus

Emphasizes the driving force behind an action.

work as an incentive

Highlights the reward aspect of motivation.

be a source of encouragement

More focused on emotional support and inspiration.

provide inspiration

Highlights the creative and imaginative aspect of motivation.

drive action

More direct and forceful in suggesting motivation.

spur activity

Emphasizes quick and energetic action.

boost morale

Specifically targets the emotional state to increase motivation.

galvanize efforts

Implies a sudden and significant surge in motivation.

ignite passion

Focuses on the intense emotional aspect of motivation.

FAQs

How can I use "function as a motivator" in a sentence?

You can use "function as a motivator" to describe something that encourages or inspires action. For example, "The success stories of previous participants can function as a motivator for new applicants."

What are some alternatives to "function as a motivator"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "serve as an impetus", "act as a stimulus", or "provide inspiration".

Is it better to say "function as a motivator" or "serve as a motivator"?

Both "function as a motivator" and "serve as a motivator" are grammatically correct. "Serve as a motivator" might be slightly more common, but the best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can negative consequences "function as a motivator"?

Yes, negative consequences can "function as a motivator", often by creating a sense of urgency or fear of failure. However, positive motivators are generally more effective in the long run.