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Meaning & use

strengthening

verb, noun·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˈstreŋθənɪŋ/
US/ˈstreŋθənɪŋ/

“strengthening” is a form of “strengthen”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.

Meanings

  1. verbtransitive or intransitive

    the present participle of 'strengthen'; making something or someone stronger.

    Grammar: As a participle it can be part of a continuous tense ('is strengthening') or an adjective ('strengthening exercises').

    Patterns

    • be strengthening
    • strengthening something
    • strengthening exercises

    The new training program is strengthening his back muscles.

    The bridge is strengthening after the repairs.

    She is strengthening her case with more evidence.

  2. noununcountable

    the act of making something stronger, or the process of becoming stronger.

    Grammar: Usually uncountable; can be countable in technical contexts ('a strengthening of the law').

    Patterns

    • the strengthening of something

    The strengthening of the currency helped importers.

    Economic strengthening is a slow process.

    The strengthening of ties between the two countries was welcomed.

Common combinations

strengthening exercises
Knee strengthening exercises can prevent sports injuries.
economic strengthening
Economic strengthening led to more jobs.
strengthening of ties
The strengthening of ties between the two schools was celebrated.

Synonyms and how they differ

reinforcement
Often used for making something (like an idea or structure) stronger; more formal and countable.
bolstering
Formal; suggests giving support or a boost, often to confidence or morale.

Opposites

weakening

Word family

strengthen verb
To make or become stronger.
strength noun
The quality of being strong.
strong adjective
Having great physical power or intensity.

Commonly confused: strengthening or stretching?

strengthening vs stretching

Stretching makes muscles longer and more flexible; strengthening makes them stronger. They are often done together but are different.

Practice

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