it only strengthens

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it only strengthens" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how something enhances or reinforces a particular idea, argument, or situation. Example: "The evidence presented in the report is compelling, and it only strengthens our case for further research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

European leaders will now feel compelled to prove their resolve, without so isolating and alienating Austria that it only strengthens the position of Jorg Haider, the far-right populist whom European leaders hoped to exclude from their ranks.

The New York Times

If he is added to the mix, it only strengthens us in the starting pitching, which would be a big plus for us, a very big plus for us".

The New York Times - Sports

In 1958, in an "Art of Fiction" interview for The Paris Review, he said to George Plimpton, "Anything you know you can eliminate and it only strengthens your iceberg".

The New Yorker

On top of all this, if firing Sessions is seen by Mueller and Congress as another move by Trump that could be viewed as obstruction of justice, it only strengthens the case against him if impeachment is ever on the table.

The Guardian - Opinion

"When we have fans calling in after watching it on TV, it only strengthens the rules of the game and how good we have to be," said Jacobsen, who received the Payne Stewart Award, which recognizes sportsmanship, character and charitable activities.

The New York Times - Sports

If they go out [of the Champions League] it only strengthens their chances.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

It only strengthened my admiration for this man, who not only is my father but also a world leader, symbolizing the "everyman".

The New York Times

It only strengthened the violent emotions and high-handed manners of the characters: jaded, unhappy aristocrats; a madman who plays at being a 12th-century king or plays at being mad; servants whose lives depend on picking up the right cues from people rich enough to play any role they choose.

The New York Times - Arts

When she had a severe seizure live on air, soon after she first started streaming, she says it only strengthened the bond between her and her viewers (she subsequently uploaded the footage to YouTube, to show people what a seizure looks like).

The Guardian - Tech

But for many Afghans, it only strengthened their resolve to carry on.

BBC

It only strengthened my sales at unalarmed places.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it only strengthens" when you want to emphasize that a particular action or event serves to reinforce an existing condition or argument. Ensure that the subject "it" is clearly defined in the context.

Common error

Avoid using "it only strengthens" without a clear antecedent for "it". Ensure the reader understands what "it" refers to, or the sentence will lack clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it only strengthens" functions as a connector, indicating that the subject reinforces or enhances a specific aspect. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. For example, "it only strengthens the case against him if impeachment is ever on the table."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academic

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it only strengthens" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey reinforcement or enhancement. Ludwig AI validates its use in multiple contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure the subject "it" is clear and the intended strengthening effect is apparent. Alternatives such as "it simply reinforces" or "it merely bolsters" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it simply reinforces

Emphasizes the straightforward nature of the reinforcement.

it merely bolsters

Suggests a more subtle or supportive strengthening effect.

it exclusively reinforces

Highlights that the action solely results in strengthening.

it solely augments

Focuses on increasing the size, amount, or degree of something.

it particularly enhances

Highlights that the strengthening is significant or noteworthy.

it uniquely fortifies

Suggests a distinct or unparalleled strengthening effect.

it singularly reinforces

Emphasizes the single-minded effect of reinforcement, with focus on the unique nature of boosting the main subject.

it primarily consolidates

Focuses on solidifying or securing something.

it mainly underpins

Implies a foundational strengthening effect.

it essentially validates

Suggests that it strengthens the belief or confidence on something.

FAQs

How can I use "it only strengthens" in a sentence?

Use "it only strengthens" to indicate that something reinforces or enhances a particular aspect. For example, "The additional data only strengthens our initial hypothesis".

What are some alternatives to "it only strengthens"?

You can use alternatives like "it simply reinforces", "it merely bolsters", or "it particularly enhances" depending on the context.

Is there a difference in meaning between "it only strengthens" and "it strengthens"?

"It strengthens" implies a general reinforcement, while "it only strengthens" emphasizes that the sole outcome or effect is to strengthen, implying exclusivity.

When is it appropriate to use "it only strengthens" in formal writing?

It is appropriate in formal writing when you want to emphasize that the primary or exclusive effect of something is to reinforce or enhance a particular point or argument. Consider alternatives like "it primarily consolidates" for academic contexts.