gik1 lai6激勵激励
Jyutpinggik1 lai6
Yalegīk laih
Definition
To encourage, inspire, or boost morale.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While 激勵 is used in formal contexts like speeches or news reports, it can sound slightly stiff or bookish in casual daily conversation. For everyday encouragement between friends, people often prefer using 鼓勵 or simply saying someone is幫人打氣. It carries a sense of providing a push or inspiration to overcome a challenge rather than just offering casual support.
Examples
He is always encouraging his friends around him.
Are there any words that can motivate you?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 激勵 with 激氣, which means to be infuriated or to make someone angry. Using 激勵 when you mean to say you are annoyed by someone will cause significant confusion.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
