inspiration for

Meaning

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   Someone or something that gives you the idea or desire to do something.

   Grammar: Followed by a noun or an -ing form: inspiration for writing, inspiration for a film.

   Patterns

   • inspiration for something
   • inspiration for doing something
   • an inspiration for someone

   Her grandmother was the inspiration for the main character in her book.

   The city's street art became an inspiration for a whole generation of young painters.

   What was your inspiration for starting this business?

Common combinations

an inspiration for

The festival is an inspiration for similar events around the country.

the inspiration for

He was the inspiration for the song's title.

find inspiration for

I find inspiration for my designs in old magazines.

provide inspiration for

The landscape provided inspiration for many poets.

a source of inspiration for

Her teacher was a constant source of inspiration for her.

Synonyms and how they differ

model

A model is something you copy or imitate, while inspiration is more about the spark of an idea; use model when the influence is direct and deliberate.

muse

A muse is a person or force that artists say gives them ideas; it is more literary and personal than inspiration for.

Word family

inspire verb

To make someone want to do something, especially something creative.

inspiring adjective

Giving you new ideas or enthusiasm.

inspirational adjective

Making you feel confident and eager to achieve things.

inspiration noun

The feeling or idea that makes you want to create something.

Commonly confused: inspiration for or inspiration from?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “inspiration for”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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