impetuses
Sparks for action
Impetuses is the plural of impetus, a force that moves something forward or a stimulus that prompts action.
An impetus can be physical—the push that starts motion—or figurative: The scandal provided fresh impetuses for reform.
The word often appears in singular form even when multiple forces are meant, making the plural somewhat uncommon.
Reward encouraging action
- driveOperate a vehicle
- ambitionDesire for achievement
- aspirationStrong desire for achievement
- desireIntense wanting
purpose · goal · enthusiasm · passion · determination · resolve · willpower · zeal
What prompts a reaction
- triggerWhat initiates action
- sparkTiny fiery particle
- precipitantCauses solid formation
- activatorAgent that initiates
incitement · provocation · instigator · initiator · inducer · accelerant · spur · instigation
Forceful forward motion
- propulsionForce driving movement forward
- forceStrength or compulsion
- pushForce something away
- accelerationRate velocity changes
energy · velocity · power · boost · surge · drive · pressure · kinetic energy
incentive
Reward encouraging action
- driveOperate a vehicle
- ambitionDesire for achievement
- aspirationStrong desire for achievement
desire · purpose · goal · enthusiasm · passion · determination · resolve · willpower · zeal · fervor
stimulus
What prompts a reaction
- triggerWhat initiates action
- sparkTiny fiery particle
- precipitantCauses solid formation
activator · incitement · provocation · instigator · initiator · inducer · accelerant · spur · instigation · agitation
thrust
Forceful forward motion
- propulsionForce driving movement forward
- forceStrength or compulsion
- pushForce something away
acceleration · energy · velocity · power · boost · surge · drive · pressure · kinetic energy · inertia
impetusesresults
What follows from effort
outcomes · consequences · effects · products · repercussions
impetusesimpediments
Things that obstruct progress
deterrents · disincentives · brakes · obstacles · drags
impetusesdeterrents
Things discouraging certain actions
disincentives · discouragements · demotivators · dissuasions · dampeners