26984 words

strengthen

7 definitions • 22 examples
1
to make something stronger or more effective, or to become stronger or more effective:

Examples:

They have been strengthening their border defences in preparation for war.
His battle against cancer has strengthened his belief in God.
The accident strengthens the case for better safety measures at fairgrounds.
The organization's aim is to strengthen the cultural ties between Britain and Germany.
The rise in US interest rates caused the dollar to strengthen (= increase in value) against all the Asian currencies.
2
to become more effective, or to make something more effective:

Examples:

[ T ] Somehow his illness strengthened their marriage and brought them closer together.
[ T ] Parents can strengthen ties with their children.
3
to become more powerful or more difficult to break, or to make something stronger:

Examples:

[ T ] If something isn’t done to strengthen the railroad bridge, it may collapse.
[ I ] The tone of her voice strengthened suddenly.
[ T ] Exercise will strengthen your legs.
4
to make something more effective or powerful:

Examples:

A discussion paper aiming to strengthen the EU's competition regime has been circulated amongst commissioners.
Research and development expenses amounted to €76m in the first six months, reflecting the company's desire to further strengthen its technological leadership.
Recent efforts have been made to strengthen the role of outside directors.
strengthen your position/performance/control Mobile operators need to strengthen their control over revenue and profit.
strengthen laws/regulations/mechanisms The Oil Conservation Division is in the process of trying to strengthen regulations over oil waste pits.
5
if the financial position of a company, economy, etc. strengthens, or if something strengthens it, it improves:

Examples:

Proceeds of the sale will be used to pay off existing debt in order to strengthen the balance sheet.
Year-on-year GDP growth continued to strengthen in the first quarter.
be strengthened (by sth) Their market position has been strengthened by the purchase of their main US rival.
6
if a currency strengthens, or if something strengthens it, it increases in value compared to other currencies:

Examples:

The euro strengthened against the dollar.
7
to improve someone's chances of success:

Examples:

A deal with JFK airport would strengthen our hand in winning more overseas contracts.

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