inspirational

/ˌɪnspəˈreɪʃənəl/

Say it: in-spuh-RAY-shuh-nul

1. adjective Making you feel full of hope or encouraged to do something great or creative.
Her recovery from the illness was an inspirational story for the entire community.
2. adjective Relating to or stemming from a divine or spiritual influence.
The pastor delivered an inspirational sermon on the power of forgiveness.

📖 Seen in the wild

Her story of overcoming adversity was truly inspirational to everyone in the audience.
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✏️ inspirational in a sentence

The coach gave an inspirational speech to the team before the championship game.
Many people find his journey from poverty to CEO truly inspirational.
The documentary featured inspirational figures who have overcome incredible odds.
She keeps a journal of inspirational quotes to read when she feels discouraged.
His dedication to the craft is inspirational to all the younger artists in the studio.
The foundation's work has had an inspirational effect on youth volunteerism in the city.

🔁 Synonyms & antonyms

uplifting motivating encouraging moving stirring rousing heartening stimulating

uplifting · suggests raising one's spirits or morale, often emotionally.

motivating · focuses more directly on providing a reason or incentive to act.

encouraging · implies giving someone hope or confidence to proceed.

moving · emphasizes a strong emotional response, which may or may not lead to action.

Opposites: uninspiring, discouraging, demoralizing, depressing, dull

🌱 Where it comes from

The word 'inspirational' is the adjectival form of 'inspiration', which entered English from French. Its ultimate root is the Latin verb 'inspirare', meaning 'to breathe or blow into'. This evolved from a literal sense to the figurative one of divine influence or creative stimulation, as if a god were breathing life or ideas into a person.

🧩 How it's used

Common patterns:

inspirational speakerinspirational storytruly inspirationalinspirational leaderinspirational messageinspirational quote

'Inspirational' carries a strong positive connotation, suggesting a profound effect on someone's spirit or ambition. Because of its power, it can sound cliché or insincere if overused, especially in corporate jargon or marketing. The word is most effective when the source of inspiration is specific and genuinely moving, rather than used as a generic compliment.

Word family: inspire, inspiration, inspired, inspiring

💬 Quick answers

What does 'inspirational' mean?

It describes something or someone that makes you feel hopeful, encouraged, and full of new ideas, or that makes you want to do something ambitious or creative.

What is the difference between 'inspirational' and 'motivational'?

Inspirational often relates to a feeling of creative or spiritual awakening, affecting your beliefs or emotions. Motivational is more focused on providing a direct reason or incentive to take action toward a specific goal.

Is 'inspirational' a formal word?

Inspirational is a neutral word that is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. It can be used in academic papers, business presentations, and everyday conversation.

Can a person be described as inspirational?

Yes, people are frequently described as inspirational. This usually refers to their actions, character, or achievements which encourage others to be better or to pursue their own goals.

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