demotiviert

Demotiviert is a German adjective describing a person or situation that lacks motivation or has experienced a loss of motivation. It can refer to an individual who feels unenthusiastic about tasks at work or school, or to a mood or atmosphere characterized by reduced drive.

Etymology and form. Derived from the verb motivieren with the prefix de-, demotivieren means to reduce motivation; the participle demotiviert functions as an adjective. It is used predicatively ("Er ist demotiviert.") and attributively ("eine demotivierte Person" or "eine demotivierte Mitarbeiterin").

Nuance and contexts. Demotivated often signals a reaction to circumstances rather than a permanent trait; it can be temporary (for example, after criticism) or more persistent (burnout, disengagement). Common factors include lack of autonomy, unclear goals, excessive control, repetitive tasks, insufficient feedback, and stress. In workplace or educational settings, demotivation can reduce performance and engagement unless addressed by changes such as better recognition, meaningful tasks, and supportive leadership.

Related terms and usage notes. In German, Demotivation is used as a loanword, while more standard alternatives for describing diminished drive include Motivationsverlust or unmotiviert, depending on nuance. The term is common in discussions of management, psychology, and education, and its English equivalent is "demotivated."