Are you using the words “inspired” and “inspiring” interchangeably? While they may seem similar, they have distinct meanings that can make a significant difference in your writing.
Let’s clarify which of the two words is the proper one to use. The answer is: it depends on the context.
Generally, “inspired” is used to describe the state of being influenced or motivated by something or someone. For example, “I was inspired by her dedication to start my own business.”
On the other hand, “inspiring” is used to describe something or someone that has the ability to inspire or motivate others. For example, “Her story was so inspiring that it motivated me to take action.”
Now that we’ve established the difference between the two words, let’s delve deeper into their meanings and how to use them effectively in your writing.
Define Inspired
When we say that someone or something is inspired, we mean that they are influenced by a creative force that motivates them to produce something unique and exceptional. Inspiration is often described as a spark that ignites the imagination and drives people to create something that is beyond the ordinary. It is a feeling of being moved to do something that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
An inspired person is someone who is driven by a deep sense of purpose and passion. They are often highly creative and have a unique perspective on the world around them. They are not afraid to take risks and are willing to put in the hard work required to achieve their goals. They are driven by a desire to create something that is truly exceptional and that will make a difference in the world.
Define Inspiring
When we say that something or someone is inspiring, we mean that they have the ability to motivate and encourage others to achieve their goals and pursue their dreams. An inspiring person or thing has a positive impact on those around them, and can help to bring out the best in others.
An inspiring person is someone who leads by example, and who has the ability to motivate and inspire others to be their best selves. They are often highly charismatic and have a natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life. They are passionate about what they do, and are able to communicate that passion to others in a way that is both inspiring and motivating.
Similarly, an inspiring thing is something that has the power to move people and motivate them to take action. This could be a work of art, a piece of music, or a powerful speech. Whatever it is, it has the ability to touch people on a deep level and inspire them to be their best selves.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the words “inspired” and “inspiring” correctly in a sentence is essential to convey the intended meaning. Here’s how to use each word properly:
How To Use “Inspired” In A Sentence
The word “inspired” is commonly used to describe a feeling of being moved or influenced by something or someone. It can also refer to the act of being creative or imaginative.
Here are some examples of how to use “inspired” in a sentence:
- After watching the movie, I felt inspired to start painting again.
- The artist’s work was inspired by nature and its beauty.
- Her speech was so inspiring that it left the audience feeling inspired to take action.
When using “inspired” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context is clear and that the intended meaning is conveyed.
How To Use “Inspiring” In A Sentence
The word “inspiring” is commonly used to describe something or someone that motivates or encourages others to take action or achieve something.
Here are some examples of how to use “inspiring” in a sentence:
- The coach was very inspiring and motivated the team to win the game.
- The book was so inspiring that it encouraged me to start my own business.
- His leadership was inspiring and helped the company achieve great success.
When using “inspiring” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context is clear and that the intended meaning is conveyed.
More Examples Of Inspired & Inspiring Used In Sentences
In order to fully understand the difference between inspired and inspiring, it’s important to see them used in context. Here are some examples of how each word might be used in a sentence:
Examples Of Using Inspired In A Sentence
- Her performance in the play was truly inspired.
- The artist’s latest work is clearly inspired by nature.
- After reading that novel, I felt so inspired to write my own.
- The chef’s use of spices was truly inspired.
- His dedication to his craft is truly inspiring.
- The team’s performance was inspired by their coach’s pep talk.
- The film was inspired by a true story.
- Her creativity is truly inspired.
- The musician’s latest album is clearly inspired by jazz.
- The writer’s use of language is truly inspired.
Examples Of Using Inspiring In A Sentence
- Her story is truly inspiring.
- The speaker’s words were so inspiring that I decided to take action.
- His courage in the face of adversity was truly inspiring.
- The teacher’s passion for the subject was truly inspiring.
- Her dedication to helping others is truly inspiring.
- The team’s comeback was truly inspiring.
- The musician’s performance was truly inspiring.
- The writer’s journey to success is truly inspiring.
- The community’s response to the crisis was truly inspiring.
- The athlete’s perseverance was truly inspiring.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words “inspired” and “inspiring”, many people tend to use them interchangeably. However, this is a common mistake that can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when using these words and how to avoid them:
Mistake #1: Using “Inspired” Instead Of “Inspiring”
One of the most common mistakes people make is using “inspired” when they actually mean “inspiring”. While these two words are similar in meaning, they are not interchangeable. “Inspiring” refers to something that has the ability to inspire or motivate others, while “inspired” refers to something that has already been inspired or motivated.
For example, if you say “I am inspired by your story”, you are saying that the story has already inspired you. However, if you say “Your story is inspiring”, you are saying that the story has the ability to inspire others.
Mistake #2: Using “Inspiring” Instead Of “Inspired”
Another common mistake is using “inspiring” when you actually mean “inspired”. This mistake is often made when people use the present participle form of “inspire” (inspiring) instead of the past participle form (inspired).
For example, if you say “I am feeling inspiring today”, you are actually saying that you have the ability to inspire others, not that you have been inspired yourself. To correct this mistake, you should use the past participle form and say “I am feeling inspired today.”
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes:
- Always double-check the meaning of the word you are using before you use it.
- Think about whether you are trying to convey that something has already inspired you (use “inspired”) or whether something has the ability to inspire others (use “inspiring”).
- When in doubt, use a different word that more accurately conveys the meaning you are trying to express.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between the words “inspired” and “inspiring,” the context in which they are used can make all the difference. While both words are related to motivation and creativity, they have slightly different connotations that can change the tone of a sentence or message.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between “inspired” and “inspiring” might change:
1. Personal Development
In the context of personal development, “inspired” is often used to describe a feeling of being motivated or moved by something or someone. For example, you might say:
- “I was inspired by the speaker’s message to pursue my dreams.”
- “Her story inspired me to take action and make a change in my life.”
On the other hand, “inspiring” is often used to describe something that has the potential to inspire others. For example:
- “His work is so inspiring to me.”
- “She has an inspiring story of overcoming adversity.”
2. Marketing And Advertising
In the context of marketing and advertising, the choice between “inspired” and “inspiring” can depend on the intended message and target audience. “Inspired” can be used to describe a product or service that is designed to motivate or empower the consumer. For example:
- “Our gym membership is designed to inspire you to reach your fitness goals.”
- “This book will inspire you to take control of your finances.”
On the other hand, “inspiring” can be used to describe a brand or company that is seen as innovative or influential. For example:
- “Apple is an inspiring company that has revolutionized the tech industry.”
- “Nike is an inspiring brand that encourages people to push their limits.”
3. Creative Writing
In the context of creative writing, the choice between “inspired” and “inspiring” can depend on the tone and style of the piece. “Inspired” can be used to describe a character or plot point that is meant to evoke a strong emotional response in the reader. For example:
- “Her tragic backstory inspired me to write a story about resilience and hope.”
- “The beauty of nature inspired him to become a painter.”
On the other hand, “inspiring” can be used to describe a theme or message that is meant to encourage or uplift the reader. For example:
- “The novel’s message of hope and perseverance is truly inspiring.”
- “His poetry is so inspiring that it makes me want to pick up a pen and write.”
As you can see, the choice between “inspired” and “inspiring” can vary depending on the context in which they are used. By understanding the subtle differences between these two words, you can choose the one that best fits your intended message and tone.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using “inspired” and “inspiring” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where these rules may not apply. Here are some examples:
1. Use Of “Inspired” As A Verb
While “inspired” is primarily used as an adjective to describe something that has been influenced or motivated by something else, it can also be used as a verb in certain contexts. For example, one might say “The artist was inspired by the beauty of nature to create this masterpiece.” In this case, “inspired” is being used as a past participle verb to describe the artist’s state of mind when creating the artwork.
2. Use Of “Inspiring” To Describe Negative Situations
While “inspiring” is generally used to describe positive situations or people who motivate and uplift others, there are some cases where it may be used to describe negative situations. For example, one might say “The devastating effects of the hurricane were inspiring in their magnitude.” In this case, “inspiring” is being used to describe the sheer scale or impact of the hurricane, rather than any positive qualities.
3. Use Of “Inspired” To Describe Negative Emotions
While “inspired” is typically used to describe positive emotions such as creativity and motivation, it can also be used to describe negative emotions in certain contexts. For example, one might say “The tragic loss of her friend inspired feelings of grief and sadness.” In this case, “inspired” is being used to describe the source of the negative emotions rather than any positive influence.
4. Use Of “Inspiring” To Describe Negative People
While “inspiring” is generally used to describe positive people who motivate and uplift others, it can also be used to describe negative people in certain contexts. For example, one might say “Despite his criminal past, the notorious gang leader was an inspiring figure to his followers.” In this case, “inspiring” is being used to describe the level of influence and power that the gang leader held over his followers, rather than any positive qualities.
Overall, while the rules for using “inspired” and “inspiring” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where these rules may not apply. It is important to consider the context and intended meaning of these words in order to use them correctly and effectively.
Practice Exercises
One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of inspired and inspiring is to practice using them in sentences. Below are some practice exercises to help you do just that:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Choose the correct word (inspired or inspiring) to fill in the blank in the following sentences:
- The ___________ speech moved the audience to tears.
- The artist’s work was ___________ and thought-provoking.
- She was ___________ to pursue her dreams after watching the documentary.
- His ___________ leadership style motivated his team to achieve their goals.
- The book was ___________ and made me want to change my life.
Answer Key:
- inspiring
- inspired
- inspired
- inspiring
- inspiring
Exercise 2: Rewrite The Sentence
Rewrite the following sentences to use either inspired or inspiring:
- The movie was so good, it made me want to be a better person.
- The teacher’s enthusiasm motivated her students to learn.
- The athlete’s perseverance was admirable.
- The musician’s talent left the audience speechless.
- The book was so moving, it changed my life.
Answer Key:
- The movie was so ___________, it inspired me to be a better person.
- The teacher’s enthusiasm was ___________, inspiring her students to learn.
- The athlete’s perseverance was ___________, inspiring others to never give up.
- The musician’s talent was ___________, inspiring the audience to give a standing ovation.
- The book was so ___________, it inspired me to change my life.
By practicing using inspired and inspiring in sentences, you will become more comfortable with their usage and be able to use them more effectively in your writing.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between “inspired” and “inspiring,” it is clear that these two words have distinct meanings and uses in the English language. “Inspired” is a past tense verb that describes a feeling of being moved or motivated by something, while “inspiring” is an adjective that describes something or someone that has the power to evoke that feeling in others.
It is important to use these words correctly to avoid confusion and to accurately convey your intended meaning. When writing, consider the context and tone of your message to determine which word is most appropriate.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
Key Takeaways
- “Inspired” is a past tense verb that describes a feeling of being moved or motivated by something.
- “Inspiring” is an adjective that describes something or someone that has the power to evoke that feeling in others.
- Using the correct word can help you accurately convey your intended meaning.
- Consider the context and tone of your message when choosing between “inspired” and “inspiring.”
Remember, language is a constantly evolving tool, and there is always more to learn. By continuing to explore grammar and language use, you can improve your communication skills and become a more effective writer.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.