discourage · verb T /dɪˈskɜr.ɪdʒ/
Word family
Nouns: encouragement, discouragement
Adjectives: encouraging, discouraging
Verbs: encourage, discourage
discourage (MAKE LESS CONFIDENT)
B2 to make someone less confident or enthusiastic about something
Dictionary example:
The thought of how much work she had to do discouraged her.
Learner example:
It should include the prices of the tickets. If not, it will discourage people. (First Certificate in English; B2; Polish)
discourage sb from doing sth
B2 to try to persuade someone not to do something
Dictionary example:
We tried to discourage him from spending so much money.
Learner example:
I believe this kind of comments and incorrect information will discourage people [from] attending cultur[al] events. (First Certificate in English; B2; Turkish)
discourage (PREVENT)
C2 to try to prevent something from happening
Dictionary example:
Higher taxes could discourage business investment.
Learner example:
The truth their argument holds is overshadowed by the deteriorating conditions of living in the cities where frequent police patrols or stricter laws don't seem to discourage thefts. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)
