What does impetus mean?
Impetus is a noun denoting the force that propels an action, process, or change. It may describe literal momentum, but it is especially common in figurative uses involving politics, business, science, law, and social reform: a decision can provide fresh impetus to negotiations, or a new report can give an investigation renewed impetus. The word is closely associated with the idea of setting something in motion or preventing it from becoming stagnant. It often implies a positive, energizing influence, although the underlying force need not itself be beneficial. In general usage, impetus is more formal than words such as push or encouragement, but less abstract than inspiration and broader in meaning than a single motivation. The expression “give impetus to” is especially established, while related constructions such as “provide an impetus for” and “renewed impetus” are also common.
nounThe force, momentum, or stimulus that drives an action, process, or change. It can refer to a physical push or, more commonly, to an encouragement to act or develop.
- The force or momentum that drives an action, process, or change.
- A stimulus or encouragement that prompts action or further development.
"The proposal provided fresh impetus for the stalled negotiations."
"The discovery gave fresh impetus to the research programme."
"The economic slowdown removed much of the impetus behind the proposed expansion."
The plural impetuses is grammatically standard but relatively uncommon; singular constructions such as “fresh impetus” and “give impetus to” are more typical.
"The two crises provided separate impetuses for institutional reform."
Impetus comes from the same Latin root as “impel”: both suggest driving or pushing something forward.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does impetus come from?
The English noun comes from Latin impetus, meaning “force, impulse, attack, or driving power,” a noun formed from the same root as impellere, “to drive or push forward.” The Latin root lies behind English cognates and derivatives such as impel, impulse, and impulsive. Impetus entered English in the early 17th century and was initially used for a physical impulse or driving force before its figurative sense for motivating action became established.
Related word forms
How impetus is actually used
Impetus is standard in formal and journalistic prose and is often used with abstract processes such as change, reform, debate, or recovery. The plural impetuses is possible but much less common than the usual singular or mass use.
Easily confused with impetus
Impetus is the driving force behind an action or change, whereas an impulse is often a brief internal urge or sudden push.
Impetus is a noun meaning a motivating force, while impetuous is an adjective describing someone who acts rashly or without deliberation.