estímulo
“estímulo” means “incentive” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
incentive, encouragement
Also: stimulus, boost
📝 In Action
El nuevo bono es un gran estímulo para los trabajadores.
A2The new bonus is a great incentive for the workers.
Tus palabras de apoyo fueron el estímulo que necesitaba para terminar.
B1Your words of support were the encouragement I needed to finish.
El gobierno anunció un paquete de estímulo económico.
B2The government announced an economic stimulus package.
stimulus
📝 In Action
Las plantas crecen buscando el estímulo de la luz.
B1Plants grow looking for the stimulus of light.
El paciente no respondió a ningún estímulo externo.
B2The patient did not respond to any external stimulus.
Demasiados estímulos visuales pueden estresar al niño.
C1Too many visual stimuli can stress the child.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: estímulo
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct plural of 'estímulo'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'stimulus', which originally meant a 'pointed stick' or 'goad' used to drive cattle forward.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'estímulo' always mean money from the government?
No! While it is used for 'economic stimulus,' it more broadly means any motivation, encouragement, or physical signal that causes a reaction.
Why does 'estímulo' have an accent mark?
The accent mark on the 'í' tells you to stress that syllable. It also distinguishes the noun (the thing) from the verb 'estimulo' (I stimulate).
Is 'estímulo' a formal word?
It can be used in formal reports, but it's also very common in daily conversation when talking about what motivates someone.