reenforce or reinforce

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   to make something stronger, especially an idea, feeling, or structure

   Grammar: Takes an object: reinforce a wall, reinforce an idea. The spelling 'reinforce' is standard; 'reenforce' is a rare variant.

   Patterns

   • reinforce something
   • reinforce an idea
   • reinforce a structure

   The teacher reinforced the main points with a short quiz.

   We need to reinforce the bridge before the heavy trucks can use it.

   His calm words reinforced my confidence.

2. 2verbtransitive

   to give more support to an army, police force, or group by sending extra people or equipment

   Grammar: Often used in the passive: be reinforced by/with. Takes an object.

   Patterns

   • reinforce troops
   • reinforce the police
   • be reinforced with something

   The army reinforced its position with additional tanks.

   Police were reinforced by officers from neighboring towns.

   The battalion was reinforced before the attack.

Word forms

Common combinations

reinforce an idea

The documentary reinforced the idea that climate change is urgent.

reinforce a message

The campaign reinforced its message with social media ads.

reinforce a structure

Engineers reinforced the structure with steel beams.

positively reinforce

Teachers positively reinforce good behavior in class.

Synonyms and how they differ

strengthen

A general word for making something stronger; 'reinforce' often suggests adding extra material or support.

support

Means to hold up or help; 'reinforce' focuses on making something more solid or convincing.

Opposites

Word family

reinforcement noun

the act of making something stronger or extra support

reinforced adjective

made stronger with added material

Commonly confused: reenforce or reinforce or reenforce?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “reenforce or reinforce”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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