# strengthen

/ˈstɹɛŋθən/ (US) · /stɹˈɛŋθən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/strengthen
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to make physically stronger

verb · CEFR B1

to make something tougher or more solid so it does not break.

For teachers: to increase the physical power, durability, or structural integrity of an object or body part.

- You can do these exercises every morning to strengthen your back muscles.
- The engineers decided to strengthen the bridge's support pillars with carbon fibre to ensure they could withstand the increased weight of modern traffic.

Usage: Often used with a direct object representing a body part or a physical structure.

### 2. to become stronger

verb · CEFR B2

to grow in power or intensity.

For teachers: to increase in force, intensity, or power; used without a direct object.

- The wind began to strengthen as the storm moved closer to the coast.
- Economic indicators suggest that the local currency will continue to strengthen against the dollar throughout the next fiscal quarter.

Usage: Intransitive use; the subject is often a natural force, a currency, or an abstract trend.

### 3. to support an argument or belief

verb · CEFR B2

to make an idea or a feeling more certain or powerful.

For teachers: to provide additional evidence or support to an argument, belief, or emotional state.

- The new evidence will strengthen our case in court tomorrow.
- The latest archaeological findings significantly strengthen the theory that the ancient settlement was a major trading hub rather than a simple military outpost.

### 4. to improve a relationship or position

verb · CEFR B2

to make a connection between people or a position in a group more secure.

For teachers: to consolidate or improve the quality of a relationship, alliance, or strategic position.

- The two countries signed a new treaty to strengthen their friendship.
- The CEO's recent keynote address was designed to strengthen investor confidence following a period of significant market volatility.

## Examples

- You can strengthen your muscles by lifting weights.
- The manager hopes that the new training program will strengthen the team's communication skills.
- The recent economic data served to strengthen the central bank's argument for raising interest rates to combat rising inflation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.