SPUR Synonyms: 84 Similar and Opposite Words

spur 1 of 2

verb

Definition of spur next

as in to stab

to urge or push forward with or as if with a pointed object gently spurred the horse with his heels

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spur

2 of 2

noun

ˈspər

as in impetus

something that arouses action or activity the threat of losing its only sports franchise was the spur the city council needed to finally do something about the rising crime rate

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in support

a structure that holds up or serves as a foundation for something else a weak wall that might need a spur

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun spur contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of spur are goad, impulse, incentive, inducement, and motive. While all these words mean "a stimulus to action," spur applies to a motive that stimulates the faculties or increases energy or ardor.

fear was a spur to action

In what contexts can goad take the place of spur?

While the synonyms goad and spur are close in meaning, goad suggests a motive that keeps one going against one's will or desire.

thought insecurity a goad to worker efficiency

When might impulse be a better fit than spur?

The meanings of impulse and spur largely overlap; however, impulse suggests a driving power arising from personal temperament or constitution.

buying on impulse

When could incentive be used to replace spur?

Although the words incentive and spur have much in common, incentive applies to an external influence (such as an expected reward) inciting to action.

a bonus was offered as an incentive

When can inducement be used instead of spur?

While in some cases nearly identical to spur, inducement suggests a motive prompted by the deliberate enticements or allurements of another.

offered a watch as an inducement to subscribe

Where would motive be a reasonable alternative to spur?

The words motive and spur can be used in similar contexts, but motive implies an emotion or desire operating on the will and causing it to act.

a motive for the crime

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of spur

Verb

The National Defense Authorization Act also did not end up including any language to spur the adoption of near-term quantum technology. —

Maria Curi, Axios, 10 Dec. 2024 The weakness in the economy had spurred calls for lower rates, including from senior government officials. —

Dylan Butts, CNBC, 10 Dec. 2024

Noun

An impulse buy is something purchased in the spur of the moment, a spontaneous, unplanned departure from your shopping list. —

Daniel De Visé, USA TODAY, 11 Sep. 2024 While Mahomes was adamant the play was improvisational and spur of the moment, the two-time NFL MVP said that Chiefs head coach Andy Reid told him to try the play occasionally. —

Patrick Sung, CNN, 18 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for spur

Recent Examples of Synonyms for spur

Verb

He had been stabbed multiple times, which was his cause of death.

Samira Asma-Sadeque, People.com, 2 Dec. 2024
Police found Reeves with multiple critical stab wounds after receiving calls about a teenage boy being stabbed during a fight between two groups of minors.

Karen Bartunek, The Arizona Republic, 30 Nov. 2024