inspires

USAGE SUMMARY

"inspires" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe an event, object, or person that causes a feeling of admiration, motivation, or enthusiasm. For example: The beautiful landscape of the Grand Canyon inspires awe in all who visit.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yet spreading its responsibilities amongst un-named agencies hardly inspires confidence that water management won't become a political football again.

The Guardian - Opinion

A low-rent, amateurish red button announcement farted out in the middle of Take Me Out is not a thing that naturally inspires a lot of confidence in a song.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Whilst there, they found themselves living with the alluring Astrid, a subjugated Danish aristocrat; a situation which inspires awkward memories.

The Guardian - Books

It is a great read and inspires you to write small fantasy stories yourself.

The Guardian

"Edward Snowden doesn't have anything to do with this, but the feat he accomplished inspires other young people who follow this and understand that we live in a world of total surveillance in violation of our rights".

The Guardian

Lee remarks, "You put those things on so that if people come along and say, 'I didn't like it,' I can go, 'Well, I didn't say you would.'" Based on the response of Observer readers asked to submit lines of inquiry for this You Ask the Questions interview, Lee enjoys landslide support, though he inspires a resilient strain of snarkiness, too.

The Guardian

Engaging them effectively will require an acknowledgment of the differences among them and an understanding of their context – what motivates, influences and inspires them.

The Guardian

I think it's one of the great "ordinary" picture houses – a place that inspires loyalty and affection.

The Guardian - Film

It turns out they work for the arts section of an Iranian cultural digest and passing mention of the morality police this summer inspires lively debate.

The Guardian

It doesn't stop at the device, for a lot of children; it inspires them to draw and make things, and play with toys.

The Guardian - Tech

That's what inspires us – every time somebody gets a watch from us who may not expect it to be as good as it is.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inspires" when you want to convey that something or someone evokes a strong feeling of enthusiasm, creativity, or motivation.

Common error

Avoid constructing sentences where the subject is vaguely "inspired". Instead, specify what or who is doing the inspiring to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "inspires" is as a transitive verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form. It describes the action of someone or something causing a feeling, idea, or result in someone else. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "inspires" functions as a transitive verb that conveys the act of instilling positive emotions or motivation. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's a correct and commonly used word in written English, found frequently in news, business, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral in register, avoiding overuse in the passive voice will enhance clarity. Synonyms like "motivates" or "encourages" offer alternative ways to express similar meanings. The examples from Ludwig demonstrate its diverse application across various subjects, solidifying its role in effective communication. When wanting to convey that something or someone evokes a strong feeling of enthusiasm, creativity, or motivation, "inspires" is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

motivates

Focuses on the reason or incentive behind actions, shifting from passive inspiration to active drive.

stimulates

Suggests a more direct and immediate triggering of activity or thought.

encourages

Implies providing support or confidence, often leading to action.

fosters

Conveys a sense of nurturing and promoting growth or development.

ignites

Indicates a sudden and intense burst of enthusiasm or passion.

sparks

Similar to ignites but suggests a smaller, initial trigger of interest or action.

drives

Highlights the force or impetus behind a certain outcome, often related to ambition or goals.

fuels

Suggests providing the necessary resources or energy to sustain an activity or feeling.

animates

Implies bringing life or vitality to something, making it more engaging or energetic.

sets the stage for

Emphasizes creating the conditions or environment for something to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "inspires" in a sentence?

The verb "inspires" is used to describe something or someone that fills you with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially something creative. For example, "The landscape "inspires" awe" or "She "inspires" others with her determination".

What are some synonyms for "inspires"?

Alternatives to "inspires" include "motivates", "encourages", "stimulates", and "ignites". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "inspires to"?

While "inspires" can be followed by a verb, it's more common to use "inspires someone to" or "inspires something". For example, "The movie inspires viewers to take action." Alternatively, you can rephrase the sentence to use a different verb like "motivates" or "encourages".

What's the difference between "inspires" and "motivates"?

"Inspires" generally refers to an emotional or creative influence, while "motivates" suggests a more practical or goal-oriented push. Inspiration is about sparking enthusiasm, whereas motivation is about providing a reason to act.