incentivize

American  

[in-sen-ti-vahyz] / ɪnˈsɛn tɪˌvaɪz /

Also incent

verb (used with object)

incentivized, incentivizing

1. to give incentives to.

   The government should incentivize the private sector to create jobs.

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incentivize British  

/ ɪnˈsɛntɪˌvaɪz /

verb

1. (tr)

   1. to provide (someone) with a good reason for wanting to do something

      why not incentivize companies to relocate?

   2. to promote (something) with a particular incentive

      an incentivized share option scheme

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Etymology

Origin of incentivize

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70

Example Sentences

The idea was you incentivize people to stick around with the prospect of a big payday upon an exit or an IPO.

From The Wall Street Journal

But some of the changes could also incentivize banks to lend still more money to nonbank lenders.

From The Wall Street Journal

But some of the changes could also incentivize banks to lend still more money to nonbank lenders.

From The Wall Street Journal

Now consider an economic approach with a menu designed to incentivize firms to self-identify.

From The Wall Street Journal

Another order called on federal agencies to incentivize state and local governments to cut costly mandates and speed up permits.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• encourage
• motivate