strengthens

USAGE SUMMARY

'strengthens' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that makes something or someone become stronger, better, or more intense. Example: Regular exercise strengthens the body and the mind.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The clear commitment that has been given by Russia and China [to expand state-run news channels in Europe] strengthens the case why we should be backing the World Service," he said.

The Guardian

As sites such as Stormfront demonstrate, the far right is not simply about winning elections; it also strengthens and passes a particular belief system and collective identity on to future generations.

The Guardian - Opinion

He brings over 25 years of agency-side experience, accumulated on both sides of the Atlantic, and will play a key role as the Guardian strengthens its focus on its US business after an extremely successful 12 months.

The Guardian

Successful collaboration with the water, sanitation, and hygiene (Wash) and nutrition sectors also strengthens the sustainability of the programme.

The Guardian

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 3.58pm Britain8 Britain strengthens ties with opposition A new arrival on Twitter is Jon Wilks, Britain's "special representative to the Syrian opposition".

The Guardian

When you add the caveat that these three incidents happened in the last four matches, it clearly strengthens the fans case.

The Guardian - Sport

That just strengthens the case for a quickie renewal of Britain's wedding vows with Europe in a referendum held in 2016.

The Guardian

Santander was able to buy the building as a currency play: it can benefit from rising values for buildings on long leases, and if the pound strengthens, then it will be on a double winner.

The Guardian - Business

It is realistic only where it takes the form of diplomatic, trade and cultural exchange, and strengthens the professional and merchant class from which brave criticism of authoritarian government tends to emerge.

The Guardian - Opinion

Miliband had to rule out a coalition with the SNP again this week because it strengthens what leverage he still possesses over undecided voters in Scotland.

The Guardian - Opinion

Pangaea is an exciting initiative that strengthens premium publishers' proposition by guaranteeing a trusted advertising environment, building significant scale and sharing smart targeting abilities".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "strengthens", ensure that the subject performing the action clearly contributes to the enhancement of the object; for instance, 'Consistent practice strengthens skills'.

Common error

Avoid using "strengthens" with abstract nouns that cannot logically be made stronger. For example, instead of 'This strengthens the importance', use 'This highlights the importance'.

Linguistic Context

The word "strengthens" functions as a transitive verb in the third-person singular present tense. Ludwig AI states that it refers to making something or someone become stronger, better, or more intense. Examples show it describing actions that enhance existing qualities or conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "strengthens" is a versatile verb used to describe the act of making something more robust, effective, or resilient. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. With a "Very common" frequency, "strengthens" appears predominantly in "News & Media", "Formal & Business", and "Science" domains. To ensure precise and impactful writing, consider the subtle nuances between "strengthens" and its alternatives such as "reinforces", "fortifies", and "enhances", while avoiding its misuse with abstract nouns that cannot be logically reinforced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reinforces

Focuses on adding extra support or validity, implying a pre-existing strength.

fortifies

Implies making something resistant to attack or weakening, suggesting a protective aspect.

enhances

Focuses on improving the quality or value of something, suggesting an upgrade.

bolsters

Suggests providing support or encouragement, often in a situation of weakness or doubt.

augments

Implies increasing the size or quantity of something, adding to what already exists.

consolidates

Focuses on making something more solid or secure, often referring to power or control.

toughens

Suggests making something more durable or resilient, able to withstand hardship.

empowers

Focuses on giving someone the power or authority to do something, enhancing their agency.

intensifies

Implies making something stronger in terms of feeling or effect, increasing its impact.

sharpens

Suggests making something more focused or effective, refining its capabilities.

FAQs

How can I use "strengthens" in a sentence?

Use "strengthens" to describe an action that makes something more powerful, robust, or effective. For example, 'Regular exercise strengthens your muscles' or 'This evidence strengthens our argument'.

What are some alternatives to saying "strengthens"?

You can use alternatives like "reinforces", "fortifies", or "enhances" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say 'strengthens the importance'?

While grammatically correct, it's often better to use a verb that more directly reflects the intended meaning. Consider using "emphasizes the importance" or "highlights the importance" instead.

What is the difference between "strengthens" and "reinforces"?

"Strengthens" implies making something generally stronger, while "reinforces" suggests adding extra support to something already strong.