motivation to work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "motivation to work" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the reasons or incentives that drive someone to engage in their job or tasks. Example: "The company's new incentive program significantly increased employees' motivation to work, leading to higher productivity levels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a prospect that ate away at their motivation to work in school.

The Guardian

I haven't had the motivation to work out how much the gas version was.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But Ali had a powerful motivation to work with the American troops.

The New York Times - Magazine

It means they can see something positive there and they gain the motivation to work".

The Guardian - Sport

We have no motivation to work for her, because we just can't talk to her.

The Guardian

The urgent question is simply whether we can recover a motivation to work together.

The Washington Post

Individual motivation to work and expand skills is also important to competitive advantage.

Harvard Business Review

To uncover complementary therapists' motivation to work in cancer/supportive and palliative care.

Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice

It will be hurtful to them and reduce their motivation to work toward reconciliation.

University of California, Berkeley

"I saw that as motivation to work as hard as I could in the summertime," Schenscher said.

The New York Times - Sports

That's good if the transfer is meant to help someone in need, without reducing his motivation to work.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In employee surveys, directly assess "motivation to work" using Likert scale questions to gauge overall job satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

Common error

Don't assume that short-term rewards alone boost "motivation to work". Sustainable motivation often requires deeper factors like meaningful work, growth opportunities, and a positive work environment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "motivation to work" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It describes the internal or external factors that drive an individual to engage in work-related activities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

57%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "motivation to work" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the factors driving an individual's engagement in work. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity. It appears frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating a neutral formality level. Related phrases include "desire to work" and "incentive to work", each with subtle differences in meaning. When using the phrase, remember that sustainable motivation involves more than just short-term incentives, focusing instead on aspects like meaningful work and growth opportunities. Understanding the multifaceted nature of the phrase enhances clear and effective communication in both professional and academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drive to work

Highlights the internal force that compels one to work, similar to "motivation" but with a stronger sense of propulsion.

desire to work

Emphasizes the wanting or wishing aspect, differing from the inherent drive implied by "motivation".

purpose to work

Suggests a sense of meaning or direction in one's work, providing a deeper "motivation".

incentive to work

Focuses on external rewards or benefits that encourage work, unlike the internal drive of "motivation".

reason to work

Focuses on the justification or explanation for engaging in work, differing from the underlying impulse of "motivation".

eagerness to work

Emphasizes a strong desire and anticipation for working, while "motivation" can be a more sustained and general force.

enthusiasm to work

Stresses positive excitement and eagerness towards work, whereas "motivation" is a more general term.

inspiration to work

Focuses on the creative impulse that drives one to work, a specific type of "motivation".

commitment to work

Highlights dedication and obligation towards work, differing from the underlying reasons for working implied by "motivation".

stimulus to work

Highlights the external factors that activate one's work ethic, setting apart from the internal condition of "motivation".

FAQs

How can I increase my "motivation to work"?

Try setting achievable goals, breaking down large tasks into smaller steps, and rewarding yourself for completing milestones. Finding meaning in your work and connecting with colleagues can also boost your drive.

What are some synonyms for "motivation to work"?

You can use alternatives like "desire to work", "incentive to work", or "drive to work" depending on the context.

How does job satisfaction relate to "motivation to work"?

Job satisfaction often enhances "motivation to work" by creating a positive and engaging work environment. When employees feel valued and fulfilled, they are more likely to be motivated.

What factors can decrease "motivation to work"?

Factors such as lack of recognition, unclear expectations, poor management, limited growth opportunities, and a negative work environment can all decrease an employee's "motivation to work".