The word "foster" means to promote the growth or development of something, or to care for and raise someone or something. Some antonyms for "foster" are:
Hinder: This word implies getting in the way or obstructing the progress or development of something. For example, "Lack of resources can hinder the growth of a business, whereas fostering it would involve providing support and encouragement." Hinder is the opposite of foster in that it stops or slows down what could otherwise be nurtured and advanced.
Neglect: When we neglect something, we fail to give it the attention or care it needs. In contrast to fostering, which is active and positive care, neglect is passive and can lead to deterioration. For instance, "Neglecting a garden will result in weeds and decay, while fostering it will lead to beautiful blooms."
Impede: This means to block or slow down the movement or progress of something. Similar to hinder, it goes against the idea of fostering growth and development. For example, "Bureaucratic red tape can impede innovation, whereas fostering an environment of creativity can lead to great progress."
In conclusion, while "foster" implies active support and care for growth and development, its antonyms like hinder, neglect, and impede represent actions or states that prevent or slow down progress. These words highlight the contrast between promoting and inhibiting, and help us understand the importance of fostering positive change.