General meaning of "motivate":
* Mag-udyok (formal) - This is the most common and direct translation. It implies a strong influence that pushes someone to act.
* Mag-ganyak (informal) - This word is more common in everyday language and implies a less forceful influence.
Specific meanings of "motivate":
* Magbigay ng inspirasyon - To inspire
* Mag-engganyo - To encourage
* Magpalakas ng loob - To give courage
* Magbigay ng dahilan - To give a reason
Examples:
* "Mag-udyok siya sa mga empleyado na magtrabaho ng mas mahirap." (He motivates the employees to work harder.)
* "Ang mga magulang ay dapat mag-ganyak sa kanilang mga anak na mag-aral ng mabuti." (Parents should motivate their children to study well.)
* "Ang kanyang kwento ay nagbigay ng inspirasyon sa akin na magsikap." (His story inspired me to strive harder.)
The best Tagalog translation will depend on the specific context and the desired meaning.