-
> - Dictionary >
- Incentive - meaning & definition
Translate text 
Translate files Incentive
/ɪnˈsɛntɪv/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something.
The company offered a cash incentive to employees who exceeded their sales targets.
A payment or concession to stimulate greater output or investment.
Tax incentives were provided to startups to encourage innovation.
A factor that motivates or encourages an action.
The promise of a bonus served as a strong incentive for the team to meet the deadline.
Etymology
From Latin 'incentivus', meaning 'to set in motion'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
financial incentive
A monetary reward to encourage specific behavior.
performance incentive
A reward based on individual or team performance.
tax incentive
A reduction in taxes to encourage certain actions or investments.
Related Words
motivation
The process of providing a reason for doing something.
reward
A benefit received in return for service or achievement.
inducement
A thing that persuades or leads someone to do something.
Slang Meanings
A bribe or an additional payment to encourage action.
They offered a little extra as an incentive to sign the contract quickly.
A sweetener in negotiations.
Adding an incentive to the deal made it much easier to close.