English Reference

Word

strengthening

Phoneticsstrength·en·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈstɹɛŋθənɪŋ/

UK/stɹˈɛŋθənɪŋ/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the process of making something stronger, such as a building, a relationship, or your body.

n. the process of increasing the physical, structural, or abstract strength of an entity.

Examples

“The strengthening of the bridge took several months.”

“The central bank announced new measures aimed at the strengthening of the national currency against the dollar.”

“The structural strengthening of the historic cathedral required a delicate balance between modern engineering techniques and the preservation of original medieval masonry.”

Examples

simple

“The strengthening of the bridge took several months.”

contextual

“The central bank announced new measures aimed at the strengthening of the national currency against the dollar.”

complex

“The structural strengthening of the historic cathedral required a delicate balance between modern engineering techniques and the preservation of original medieval masonry.”

Real-World Examples

“A strengthening tropical storm named Lala is set to hit Hawaii's Big Island with hurricane-force gales on Saturday, bringing dangerous winds, rainfall and heavy surf.”
Phys.org 15 Aug 2026
“We often imagine we’re training our bodies; we’re also strengthening the ancient energy system that allows our brains to work.”
The Guardian 9 Aug 2026
“This suggests that GIPR antagonists might eventually be useful for strengthening several different classes of obesity treatments.”
ScienceDaily 15 Aug 2026

Synonyms

Antonyms

Word family

NOUN

strengthening(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference