Basic Details
Word: Strengthen
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To make something stronger or more powerful.
Synonyms: Reinforce, bolster, enhance
Antonyms: Weaken, diminish, reduce
Idioms and Phrases
- Strength in numbers: The idea that a group is stronger than individuals. Example: "In the game, we realised that strength in numbers helped us defeat the competition."
- Strengthen ones resolve: To become more determined and focused. Example: "After hearing her coachs inspiring words, she knew she had to strengthen her resolve to win."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The new training programme is designed to strengthen the athletes muscles and stamina.
Example 2: Reading every day can strengthen your vocabulary and understanding of language.
Example 3: To strengthen their friendship, they decided to spend more time together on weekends.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "strengthen" comes from the Old English word "strength," which means power or might? Over time, it evolved to mean making something even stronger!
Famous Quote
"What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead." Nelson Mandela
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "strengthen" mean?
a) To make something weaker
b) To make something stronger
c) To take away power
d) To cause something to stop
Answer: b) To make something stronger
2. Which of these is a synonym of "strengthen"?
a) Diminish
b) Reinforce
c) Reduce
d) Weaken
Answer: b) Reinforce
3. Which of these is an antonym of "strengthen"?
a) Build
b) Weaken
c) Enhance
d) Fortify
Answer: b) Weaken
4. Which sentence uses "strengthen" correctly?
a) Eating healthy food can strengthen your immune system.
b) He decided to strengthen the ice and walk on it.
c) To strengthen the rain, they planted more trees.
d) She likes to strengthen her books by reading them less.
Answer: a) Eating healthy food can strengthen your immune system.
5. What does the idiom "strength in numbers" mean?
a) The more people, the less strength
b) Individuals are weaker than groups
c) Numbers are not important
d) Strength only comes from exercise
Answer: b) Individuals are weaker than groups
