ENGLISH
REFERENCE

strength

n. C / U
B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ˈstɹɛŋkθ// UK //stɹˈɛŋθ// strength Archaic General-service

n. the physical power you have to move heavy things or the mental power to deal with difficult problems.

n. the quality or state of being physically strong; the capacity of an object or person to withstand great force or pressure.


SIMPLE

He does not have the strength to lift that heavy box alone.

CONTEXTUAL

The bridge was reinforced with steel beams to increase its structural strength against high winds.

COMPLEX

True leadership requires the moral strength to make unpopular decisions when they serve the long-term interests of the community.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle English strengthe, from Old English strengþu (“strength”), from Proto-West Germanic *strangiþu (“strongness; strength”), equivalent to strong + -th (abstract nominal suffix). Cognate with Dutch strengte (“strength”), German Low German Strengde, Strengte (“harshness; rigidity; strictness; severity”).

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the general quality of being strong; countable when referring to a specific asset or beneficial quality.

Pitfall

He has a lot of strengths in his arms.He has a lot of strength in his arms.When referring to physical power as a mass concept, the word is uncountable; 'strengths' usually refers to a person's positive skills or talents.

Idioms3 entries

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