English vocabulary · B2
Impetus
/ˈɪm.pɪ.təs/ · n.
It means a force that starts action or makes something move forward.
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Example sentences
- The news gave the team impetus to act fast.
- Losing the match was the impetus for change.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- im — into (from Latin)
- pet — rush (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- STIMULUS — something that causes a response (Scientific & Formal)
- DRIVE — strong inner motivation (Personal & Internal)
- PUSH — a force that moves something (Casual & Physical)
Words with the same root
pet — rush
- compete — to rush against others to win
- repeat — to rush through again
- appetite — a strong rush of desire
Lesson notes
Impetus. It means a force that starts action or makes something move forward.
Similar words are stimulus, drive, and push. Use impetus when one event gives the force to start something big.
The news gave the team impetus to act fast. Losing the match was the impetus for change.
From Latin. Im- means into. Pet- means rush. Rush into action — that force is impetus.