That prospect doesn't spur improvement in test scores, the study found, probably because it's not much of a threat to public school officials.

And the prospect of higher co-payments and insurance premiums has spurred politicians to press for restraints on the cost of outpatient services.

In Washington, the prospect of high energy prices during an election year has spurred Congress into action.

Of course the prospect of making mounds of money is spurring him on, he said, but then his voice grew plaintive.

The prospect of trade restrictions spurred the White House to begin the negotiations that led to the Plaza Accord.

Thus, the prospect of cost savings - often corporate America's euphemism for layoffs - has spurred a lot of deals.

The prospect of a stable, regional peace has spurred economic confidence and brought new investment and trade.

The prospect of losing the 106th is spurring community action.

As a result, the prospect of less military work has spurred intense price competition among American shipbuilders for the Government business that remains.

The prospect of a second winter in Antarctica spurred the crew on in their efforts to free Belgica.