strong

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'strong' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as an adjective to describe something that is powerful and/or resilient, e.g. "She had a strong will to succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Strong community-based leadership at a local level is needed".

The Guardian

"The great service we have provided should have guaranteed a strong future, but unfortunately our network partners have decided otherwise.

The Guardian - Business

I knew this was going to be a tough fight and we have run a really strong positive campaign and we have fought for every single vote".

The Guardian

We didn't take anyone's votes for granted and we have run a very strong positive campaign".

The Guardian

Properly implemented strong crypto systems are one of the few things that you can rely on.

The Guardian

"This acquisition allows us to secure a large, global platform on which to distribute our increasingly successful original programming through a collection of strong, well-established and well-managed assets worldwide".

The New York Times

Kazakhstan, a country with a large Russian minority, has strong relations with Russia, China and the United States.

The Guardian

"My successor will inherit a business with very strong commercial foundations in place.

The Guardian

Emergency services said on Friday the decision had been made because of the danger posed by flying debris in the predicted strong winds.

The Guardian

So we have created a strong incentive for hospitals in the system not to pick out the people who aren't entitled to free NHS care.

The Guardian

A Labour source said that, given teenagers have a "tremendous vested interest in whether or not we stay in the EU or leave", there could be a strong appetite for amending the EU referendum bill in the Lords, even if Labour and the SNP fail to recruit the relatively small number of Tory rebels they would need to defeat the government in the Commons.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts, use "strong" to emphasize a positive or powerful attribute, such as a "strong argument" or "strong foundation".

Common error

Avoid using "strong" when a more direct and active verb would create a more impactful sentence. For example, instead of "strong consideration was given", try "we strongly considered".

Linguistic Context

The adjective "strong" primarily functions as a modifier, describing the qualities or characteristics of a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and wide applicability, showcased in various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "strong" is a versatile adjective used to describe something that possesses power, resilience, or intensity. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and applicable across numerous contexts. It's "very common", particularly in news and media, where it often emphasizes key attributes or impactful elements. To use "strong" effectively, consider the subtle differences between its synonyms, such as "powerful" or "robust", and avoid overuse in passive constructions for clearer, more impactful writing. Understanding these nuances helps ensure precise and compelling communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

powerful

Indicates a great deal of force or influence; a direct synonym.

robust

Suggests health and vigor, often used for systems or structures.

firm

Implies stability and resistance to pressure or change.

forceful

Describes someone or something that is effective and assertive.

vigorous

Conveys energy and intensity in action or thought.

potent

Highlights the effectiveness or influence of something.

resolute

Emphasizes determination and unwavering commitment.

staunch

Implies loyalty and steadfastness in support or belief.

unyielding

Describes resistance to pressure or persuasion.

intense

Focuses on the degree of emotion, effort or sensation.

FAQs

How can I use "strong" in a sentence?

You can use "strong" to describe physical attributes, like "a strong person", or abstract qualities, such as "a strong opinion". Its versatility allows it to modify many nouns.

What are some words I can substitute for "strong"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "powerful", "robust", or "firm" to convey similar meanings.

Is it better to say "strong" or "powerful"?

Both "strong" and "powerful" are similar, but "strong" often implies resilience or inherent quality, while "powerful" suggests influence or control. Choose the word that best fits the specific meaning you intend to convey.

What's the difference between "strong" and "forceful"?

"Strong" generally refers to inherent strength or capability. "Forceful" implies an active exertion of power or influence. For example, a "strong wind" has the capacity to cause damage, while a "forceful leader" actively directs and influences others.