English · Work & Business
incentive
/ɪnˈsen.tɪv/
[/ɪnˈsen.tɪv/]
motivating reward
Intermediatenoun
Definition
Something that motivates or encourages a person to act in a particular way.
Example
Tax breaks were offered as an incentive for companies to invest in cleaner technology.
Tax breaks were offered as an incentive for companies to invest in cleaner technology.
Etymology
From Latin 'incentivum' (something that sets the tune), from 'incinere' (to sing).
How & Where It’s Used
Common in economics, business, and policy discussion.