spur

spur

CEFR: C1-C2 /spur/ [s.p.er1]

The word "spur" can be used as a verb. To spur something on is to get it going or to encourage it. You will see the usage "spur economic growth" a lot. For example:

Example Sentences:
Lower interest rates should spur economic growth.
Cheap transportation networks, the rise of cities, and the availability of capital and credit all spurred the shift to factory production.
The fundamental concept in supply-side economics is that tax cuts will spur economic growth because these tax cuts will allow entrepreneurs to invest their tax savings, thereby creating more jobs and profits

The word "spur" is a noun. Spurs are small metal wheels with sharp points that are attached to the heels of a rider's boots. The rider uses them to make their horse go faster. We can say something that encourages a person or organization to do that thing is a "spur". For example:

Example Sentences:
The reward was offered as a spur to greater work/achievement.