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B1 noun #45 most common 18 min read

strength

Top 45

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips strength in 30 Seconds

Explanation strength in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'strength' is a word you use to talk about being strong. Think about a superhero or a person who can lift very heavy things. They have 'strength.' You can say, 'He has big muscles and great strength.' It is the opposite of being weak. You might also use it to talk about how strong a drink is, like 'strong tea' or 'strong coffee,' although we usually use the adjective 'strong' more than the noun 'strength' at this level. Just remember: 'strong' is the word to describe a person, and 'strength' is the name of the power they have. If you are strong, you have strength. It is a simple but important word to know when you want to talk about power and muscles.

At the A2 level, you start to use 'strength' in more ways. You still use it for physical power, like 'He needs strength to move the table.' But you also begin to use it for things like 'signal strength' on your phone. If you have 'full bars' of Wi-Fi, you have good signal strength. You might also hear it in the context of health. If someone is sick, they might 'lose their strength' and feel very tired. When they get better, they 'get their strength back.' You can also use it to talk about a person's good points. If you are good at math, you can say, 'Math is my strength.' This means it is something you are very good at doing. It is a useful word for describing both your body and your skills.

At the B1 level, 'strength' becomes a very versatile word. You use it to talk about 'inner strength,' which means being brave and not giving up when things are difficult. For example, 'She showed great strength after her dog died.' This isn't about muscles; it's about her heart and mind. You also use 'strength' in job interviews. A common question is, 'What are your strengths and weaknesses?' Here, 'strengths' are your best skills, like being organized or being a good leader. You also use it to describe the power of things like the wind, an argument, or a medicine. For example, 'The strength of the wind blew down the tree.' At this level, you should be comfortable using 'strength' as a noun in many different sentences and understanding that it can be both physical and mental.

At the B2 level, you use 'strength' with more precision and in more formal contexts. You might talk about the 'structural strength' of a building or the 'tensile strength' of a material. You understand that 'strength' can refer to the intensity of many things, such as the 'strength of a conviction' (how much you believe in something) or the 'strength of a relationship.' You also use common idioms and phrases, like 'playing to your strengths' or 'on the strength of.' For example, 'He got the job on the strength of his interview.' This means his interview was so good that it was the reason he was hired. You also use 'strength' to describe the collective power of a group, like 'The army was at full strength.' At this level, you can distinguish between 'strength,' 'force,' and 'power' in most situations.

At the C1 level, you use 'strength' with a high degree of nuance. you might discuss the 'strength of an economy' or the 'strength of a currency' in a complex academic or professional discussion. You can use it to describe subtle things, like the 'strength of a literary metaphor' or the 'strength of a scientific hypothesis.' You are also aware of the technical uses in various fields, from chemistry (the strength of an acid) to law (the strength of a legal precedent). You can use the word to create sophisticated sentences, such as 'The inherent strength of the system lies in its decentralized nature.' You also understand the historical and etymological roots of the word and how it has evolved. Your use of 'strength' is natural, accurate, and varied, reflecting a deep understanding of its many layers of meaning.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'strength' is complete. You use it effortlessly in the most complex and abstract contexts. You might use it in philosophical discussions about the 'strength of the human spirit' or in highly technical engineering reports. You are comfortable with all its idiomatic uses and can even use it creatively in literature or poetry. You understand the most subtle differences between 'strength' and its many synonyms, and you always choose the most appropriate word for the context. For example, you might choose 'fortitude' over 'strength' to convey a specific sense of moral courage. You can also use the word in a variety of grammatical structures, including complex prepositional phrases and clauses. Your command of 'strength' allows you to express yourself with absolute clarity, precision, and sophistication in any setting.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

strength in 30 Seconds

Physical power and muscular ability.
The capacity of a material to resist force.
Mental and emotional resilience in tough times.
A specific talent or positive quality in a person.

The word strength is a foundational noun in the English language, primarily used to describe the quality or state of being physically powerful. However, its utility extends far beyond the gym or the battlefield. At its core, strength represents the capacity for exertion or endurance. When we speak of a person's physical strength, we are referring to their muscular ability to lift, pull, or push against resistance. This is the most literal interpretation, often associated with athletes, laborers, or anyone performing manual tasks. But strength is also a vital concept in materials science and engineering. In these contexts, it refers to the ability of a material—like steel, concrete, or carbon fiber—to withstand stress and strain without breaking or deforming. For instance, the tensile strength of a cable determines how much weight it can support before it snaps. This technical application is crucial for safety and innovation in construction and manufacturing.

Physical Power: The actual muscular force a person or animal can exert to perform a physical task.

Moving into the abstract realm, strength is frequently used to describe mental or emotional fortitude. This is often called 'inner strength' or 'strength of character.' It involves the ability to remain calm, focused, and determined in the face of adversity, grief, or temptation. When someone survives a difficult period in their life, we say they showed incredible strength. This usage highlights the psychological resilience that allows humans to persevere when things get tough. Furthermore, strength can refer to a person's specific talents or assets. In a professional setting, such as a job interview, you might be asked about your 'strengths and weaknesses.' Here, strengths are the skills, qualities, or experiences that make you an effective employee, such as leadership, technical expertise, or excellent communication skills.

The bridge's structural strength was tested by the heavy winds, but it remained standing.

In the context of groups or organizations, strength refers to influence, numbers, or resources. We talk about the 'strength of an army' or the 'strength of a political party,' which encompasses their size, equipment, and strategic advantages. It can also describe the intensity or potency of something. For example, the strength of a cup of coffee refers to how much caffeine or flavor it contains. The strength of a signal, like Wi-Fi or radio, indicates how clear and powerful the connection is. Even emotions and beliefs have strength; you might have a 'strength of conviction' regarding a specific moral issue, meaning your belief is deep-rooted and unwavering. This versatility makes 'strength' one of the most frequently used nouns in both everyday conversation and specialized academic or professional discourse.

Historically, the word derives from Old English 'strengthu,' which is related to 'strong.' It has always carried the connotation of firmness and power. In modern usage, we see it appearing in various idioms and common expressions. To 'play to your strengths' means to focus on the things you are best at doing. To 'gain strength' can mean to recover from an illness or to see an idea become more popular. The word is also used in collective contexts, such as 'there is strength in numbers,' suggesting that a group of people is more powerful than an individual. Whether you are talking about the physical power of a weightlifter, the durability of a diamond, the resilience of a survivor, or the intensity of a light beam, 'strength' is the essential word to convey the idea of power and resistance to force.

Character Asset: A positive quality or skill that gives someone an advantage in a particular situation.

Her greatest strength is her ability to stay calm under pressure.

Finally, consider the nuances of 'strength' in different fields. In chemistry, the strength of an acid or base refers to its degree of ionization. In economics, the strength of a currency refers to its value relative to other currencies. In music, the strength of a performance might refer to its emotional impact or technical precision. This wide range of applications demonstrates that 'strength' is not just about muscles; it is about the fundamental capacity of any entity—be it physical, mental, social, or abstract—to exert influence and resist being overcome by external forces. Understanding these various layers of meaning allows for more precise and expressive communication in English.

Using the word strength correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a noun and the various prepositions that typically accompany it. Most commonly, we see 'strength' followed by the preposition 'of.' For example, 'the strength of the wind' or 'the strength of her character.' This structure attributes the quality of being strong to a specific subject. Another common pattern is 'strength to,' followed by a verb, which indicates the capacity to perform an action. For instance, 'He didn't have the strength to lift the box' or 'She found the strength to carry on.' This highlights the functional aspect of strength as a resource that enables action. It is also important to note that 'strength' can be both countable and uncountable depending on the context. When referring to the general quality of being strong, it is uncountable: 'He has great physical strength.' However, when referring to specific positive qualities or assets, it is countable: 'One of her many strengths is her patience.'

The 'Strength of' Pattern: Used to describe the intensity or power of a specific thing, such as 'the strength of the signal' or 'the strength of the coffee'.

In sentences involving physical exercise, 'strength' is often paired with verbs like 'build,' 'increase,' or 'develop.' You might say, 'I am lifting weights to build my upper-body strength.' This implies a gradual process of improvement. In medical or recovery contexts, we often use 'regain' or 'recover.' For example, 'After the surgery, it took him several months to regain his strength.' This suggests a return to a previous state of health and power. When discussing mental health or personal challenges, 'strength' is frequently used with verbs like 'show,' 'demonstrate,' or 'draw upon.' A sentence like 'She drew upon her inner strength to get through the loss' illustrates how strength is viewed as an internal reservoir of resilience that can be accessed during difficult times.

The athlete's strength was evident as he broke the world record.

Adjectives are often used to modify 'strength' to provide more detail. Common modifiers include 'physical,' 'mental,' 'emotional,' 'inner,' 'brute,' 'sheer,' and 'incredible.' 'Brute strength' refers to raw, unrefined physical power, often used without much skill or strategy. 'Sheer strength' emphasizes the magnitude of the power, often in a way that seems almost impossible. For example, 'By sheer strength of will, he finished the marathon despite his injury.' This sentence shows how 'strength' can be combined with 'will' to describe extreme determination. In technical writing, you will encounter terms like 'tensile strength,' 'compressive strength,' and 'shear strength,' which describe how materials respond to different types of forces. These are precise terms used by engineers to ensure that structures like skyscrapers and airplanes are safe.

Another interesting way to use 'strength' is in the phrase 'on the strength of.' This means 'based on' or 'because of.' For example, 'He was hired on the strength of his previous experience.' This indicates that his experience was the powerful factor that led to his being hired. Similarly, 'in strength' can describe a group that is present in large numbers: 'The protesters turned out in strength.' This emphasizes the collective power of the group. Understanding these varied sentence patterns allows you to use 'strength' in a way that is both grammatically correct and stylistically sophisticated, whether you are writing a formal report, a personal essay, or having a casual conversation about your fitness goals.

The 'Strength to' Pattern: Used to indicate having the necessary power or ability to perform a specific action, such as 'the strength to forgive'.

He was hired on the strength of his impressive portfolio.

Finally, consider the use of 'strength' in comparative contexts. You might compare the 'strength of two different arguments' or the 'strength of two different brands.' In these cases, 'strength' serves as a metric for quality, effectiveness, or influence. By mastering these different ways to integrate 'strength' into your sentences, you can communicate complex ideas about power, resilience, and capability with clarity and precision. Always pay attention to whether you are using it as an uncountable noun for a general quality or a countable noun for specific assets, as this is a common area of confusion for English learners.

The word strength is ubiquitous in daily life, appearing in a wide variety of social, professional, and technical environments. One of the most common places you will hear it is in the context of physical fitness and sports. Gym goers talk about 'strength training,' 'building strength,' and 'testing their strength' through various exercises like deadlifts and squats. Coaches often praise an athlete's 'explosive strength' or 'endurance strength.' In this setting, the word is almost always literal, referring to the physiological capacity of the muscles to perform work. You'll see it on supplement bottles promising to 'increase your strength' and in fitness magazines detailing 'strength-building routines.' This is perhaps the most direct and common association people have with the word.

The Fitness Center: Conversations about 'strength training', 'personal bests', and 'building muscle mass'.

In the corporate world, 'strength' takes on a more metaphorical but equally important meaning. During job interviews and performance reviews, the focus is often on 'individual strengths.' HR professionals and managers use tools like the 'StrengthsFinder' assessment to help employees identify what they are naturally good at. You will hear phrases like 'We need to play to our team's strengths' or 'What are your top three strengths?' In this context, strength is synonymous with talent, skill, or a positive personality trait. It's about what makes a person or a company competitive and effective. Similarly, in marketing and business strategy, people discuss the 'strength of a brand' or the 'strength of a market position,' referring to how well-known or dominant a product or company is in its industry.

During the interview, I was asked to describe a time I used my strength in leadership to solve a problem.

Another major arena where 'strength' is frequently used is in news and politics. Journalists often report on the 'strength of the economy,' using indicators like GDP growth, employment rates, and the value of the stock market. Politicians might talk about the 'strength of our nation' or the 'strength of our democracy,' usually referring to the resilience of institutions and the unity of the people. In international relations, the 'military strength' of a country is a key factor in its global influence. You will also hear about the 'strength of a legal case' or the 'strength of the evidence' in reports about court trials. In these instances, strength means the degree to which something is convincing, powerful, or likely to succeed.

Technical and scientific fields also rely heavily on the word. In engineering and construction, the 'strength of materials' is a fundamental subject of study. Engineers must calculate the 'yield strength' and 'ultimate strength' of steel beams to ensure buildings don't collapse. In medicine, doctors might assess a patient's 'grip strength' as a general indicator of health, or discuss the 'strength of a medication' (its dosage). In the world of technology, we talk about 'signal strength' for our phones and 'password strength' to ensure our online accounts are secure. Even in the kitchen, you might hear about the 'strength of the flour' (its protein content) or the 'strength of a spice' in a dish. This wide distribution across so many different areas of life proves that 'strength' is a versatile and indispensable term.

Technical Fields: Engineering terms like 'tensile strength' and technology terms like 'signal strength' or 'encryption strength'.

The strength of the Wi-Fi signal is very weak in the basement.

Finally, 'strength' is a common theme in literature, film, and motivational speaking. Stories often revolve around a protagonist finding the 'strength to overcome' a great evil or a personal tragedy. Motivational speakers encourage their audiences to 'find their inner strength' and 'turn their weaknesses into strengths.' In these contexts, the word is used to inspire and empower, focusing on the human capacity for growth and resilience. Whether you are reading a technical manual, listening to a political speech, or talking to a friend about their workout, you are likely to encounter 'strength' in one of its many meaningful forms.

One of the most frequent mistakes English learners make with the word strength is confusing it with its adjective form, 'strong.' It is common to hear errors like 'He has a very strong' instead of 'He has great strength,' or 'She is a strength person' instead of 'She is a strong person.' Remember that 'strength' is the noun (the thing) and 'strong' is the adjective (the description). You *are* strong, and you *have* strength. This distinction is fundamental but often tripped over in the heat of conversation. Another common error involves the spelling and pronunciation. The 'gth' cluster at the end of the word can be difficult to pronounce, leading some to say 'strenth' (omitting the 'g') or 'strenkth.' While 'strenth' is a common regional variation, the standard pronunciation includes a subtle 'g' sound before the 'th'.

Noun vs. Adjective: Incorrect: 'He has much strong.' Correct: 'He has much strength.' Incorrect: 'Her strengthness is amazing.' Correct: 'Her strength is amazing.'

Another area of confusion is the use of 'strength' as a countable versus uncountable noun. As mentioned before, when you are talking about the general quality of being powerful, it is uncountable: 'He lacks the strength to lift that.' You should not say 'He lacks a strength.' However, when you are talking about specific abilities or positive traits, it is countable and often plural: 'What are your strengths?' A common mistake is using the singular 'strength' when the plural 'strengths' is required, especially in professional contexts. For example, saying 'My strength are leadership and coding' is grammatically incorrect; it must be 'My strengths are...' because you are listing multiple distinct qualities.

Incorrect: I need to build my strong. Correct: I need to build my strength.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the correct prepositions to use with 'strength.' A common mistake is using 'strength in' when 'strength of' is intended, or vice versa. While 'strength in' is used in the phrase 'strength in numbers,' most other contexts require 'strength of' (e.g., 'the strength of the materials,' 'the strength of the argument'). Using 'strength for' is also a common error when 'strength to' is needed. For example, 'I don't have the strength for do it' is incorrect; the correct form is 'I don't have the strength to do it.' The preposition 'to' is followed by the base form of the verb to indicate the purpose or ability.

Finally, there is the confusion between 'strength' and 'power' or 'force.' While they are synonyms, they are not always interchangeable. 'Strength' often implies an inherent quality or a capacity to resist, while 'force' often implies an active application of energy, and 'power' can imply authority or control. For example, you wouldn't say 'the strength of gravity' in a scientific context as often as 'the force of gravity.' Similarly, you wouldn't say 'the strength of the president' to mean their legal authority; you would say 'the power of the president.' Misusing these synonyms can make your English sound slightly unnatural, even if the meaning is mostly clear. Paying attention to these subtle differences will help you sound more like a native speaker.

Preposition Errors: Incorrect: 'The strength for the wind was high.' Correct: 'The strength of the wind was high.' Incorrect: 'She has the strength for win.' Correct: 'She has the strength to win.'

Incorrect: One of my strength is cooking. Correct: One of my strengths is cooking.

In summary, avoid the 'strong/strength' confusion, be careful with the 'gth' spelling and pronunciation, use the plural 'strengths' when listing multiple assets, and ensure you are using the correct prepositions like 'of' and 'to.' By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you can use the word 'strength' with confidence and accuracy in any situation.

While strength is a very versatile word, English offers many synonyms and alternatives that can provide more specific meaning depending on the context. Understanding these nuances will greatly enrich your vocabulary. For physical power, synonyms include 'might,' 'brawn,' 'potency,' and 'vigor.' 'Might' often has a more formal or epic tone, as in 'the might of the Roman Empire.' 'Brawn' specifically refers to muscular strength, often in contrast to intelligence (e.g., 'brawn over brains'). 'Potency' is frequently used for the strength of medicines, chemicals, or even arguments. 'Vigor' suggests a healthy, energetic kind of strength, often associated with youth or vitality.

Strength vs. Might: 'Strength' is the general term for power. 'Might' is a more formal or literary term often used to describe great, overwhelming power, especially of a nation or army.

When discussing mental or emotional strength, alternatives like 'resilience,' 'fortitude,' 'stamina,' and 'grit' are excellent choices. 'Resilience' specifically refers to the ability to bounce back from difficult experiences. 'Fortitude' is a more formal word for courage and strength in the face of pain or adversity. 'Stamina' refers to the ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort. 'Grit' is a popular modern term for passion and perseverance toward long-term goals. Using these words instead of just 'strength' can make your descriptions of people much more vivid and precise. For example, saying someone has 'emotional resilience' is more descriptive than simply saying they have 'emotional strength.'

While he had the strength to lift the weights, he lacked the stamina to run the marathon.

In the context of materials and structures, you might use 'durability,' 'sturdiness,' 'stability,' or 'toughness.' 'Durability' refers to the ability to last a long time without wearing out. 'Sturdiness' suggests something is well-built and not easily broken. 'Stability' refers to the ability to remain balanced and not fall over. 'Toughness' in engineering specifically refers to a material's ability to absorb energy and deform without fracturing. Choosing the right technical term is essential for clear communication in fields like architecture or product design. For instance, a chair might be 'sturdy' (won't break when you sit on it) but not 'durable' (the fabric might wear out quickly).

For the intensity of things like light, sound, or feelings, you could use 'intensity,' 'potency,' 'depth,' or 'vividness.' 'Intensity' is a great general-purpose word for the degree of strength of something like a light beam or a feeling. 'Potency' is often used for smells or flavors. 'Depth' can describe the strength of an emotion or the complexity of a thought. 'Vividness' is often used for the strength and clarity of colors or memories. By using these alternatives, you can avoid overusing the word 'strength' and provide your reader or listener with a much clearer picture of what you are describing.

Strength vs. Resilience: 'Strength' is the capacity to withstand force. 'Resilience' is the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; it is the ability to 'spring back' into shape.

The intensity of the sun's rays was much greater than the strength of the breeze.

Finally, consider antonyms or opposites of strength, such as 'weakness,' 'frailty,' 'vulnerability,' and 'debility.' 'Weakness' is the most direct opposite. 'Frailty' often implies a delicate or fragile state, usually due to age or illness. 'Vulnerability' refers to a state of being open to attack or harm. 'Debility' is a formal medical term for physical weakness. Understanding these opposites helps to define 'strength' by what it is not. In conclusion, while 'strength' is a powerful and useful word, exploring its many synonyms and alternatives will allow you to communicate with greater nuance, precision, and impact in any context.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The 'gth' ending is a common way Old English formed nouns from adjectives (like long/length, wide/width, deep/depth).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /streŋθ/

US /streŋθ/

The word is a single syllable, so the stress is on the entire word.

Rhymes With

length breadth (near rhyme) stealth (near rhyme) wealth (near rhyme) health (near rhyme) depth (near rhyme) warmth (near rhyme) width (near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'strenth' (omitting the 'g').
Pronouncing it as 'strenkth' (adding a hard 'k').
Difficulty with the 'ngth' consonant cluster.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is common, but technical uses can be more difficult.

Writing 3/5

The spelling 'gth' is often difficult for learners.

Speaking 3/5

The 'ngth' consonant cluster is a common pronunciation challenge.

Listening 2/5

Generally easy to recognize in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

strong power muscle good bad

Learn Next

resilience fortitude stamina intensity durability

Advanced

tensile compressive fortification potent vigorous

Grammar to Know

Nouns ending in -th

strength, length, width, depth, growth

Uncountable vs Countable Nouns

He has strength (uncountable). He has many strengths (countable).

Prepositional Phrases with 'of'

The strength of the wind was incredible.

Infinitive after 'strength'

I don't have the strength to lift it.

Adjective to Noun conversion

strong -> strength

Examples by Level

He has great physical strength.

Il a une grande force physique.

'Strength' is a noun here.

The tea has a lot of strength.

Le thé est très fort.

'Strength' refers to the intensity of the flavor.

She needs strength to lift the bag.

Elle a besoin de force pour soulever le sac.

'Strength' is the object of the verb 'needs'.

The lion has much strength.

Le lion a beaucoup de force.

'Much' is used with the uncountable noun 'strength'.

His strength is his big muscles.

Sa force, ce sont ses gros muscles.

'Strength' is the subject of the sentence.

Do you have the strength to run?

As-tu la force de courir ?

'Strength to' is followed by a verb.

The wind has great strength today.

Le vent a une grande force aujourd'hui.

'Strength' describes the power of the wind.

I want to build my strength.

Je veux développer ma force.

'Build' is a common verb used with 'strength'.

What is your greatest strength?

Quelle est votre plus grande force ?

'Strength' here means a positive quality or skill.

The Wi-Fi signal strength is low.

La force du signal Wi-Fi est faible.

'Signal strength' is a common compound noun.

He is regaining his strength after the flu.

Il reprend des forces après la grippe.

'Regaining' implies getting back something that was lost.

Cooking is one of her strengths.

La cuisine est l'une de ses forces.

'Strengths' is plural because it's one of many skills.

The bridge has enough strength for cars.

Le pont est assez solide pour les voitures.

'Strength' refers to structural durability.

She showed strength when she was sad.

Elle a fait preuve de force quand elle était triste.

'Strength' here means emotional resilience.

I don't have the strength to open this jar.

Je n'ai pas la force d'ouvrir ce bocal.

'Strength to' indicates the ability to do something.

The army's strength was very large.

La force de l'armée était très importante.

'Strength' refers to the number of people in a group.

She drew on her inner strength to finish the race.

Elle a puisé dans sa force intérieure pour terminer la course.

'Inner strength' is a common collocation for mental fortitude.

We need to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the plan.

Nous devons analyser les points forts et les points faibles du plan.

'Strengths and weaknesses' is a very common pairing.

The strength of the coffee was too much for me.

La force du café était trop pour moi.

'Strength of' describes the intensity of a substance.

He was impressed by the strength of her argument.

Il a été impressionné par la force de son argument.

'Strength' here means how convincing or powerful an idea is.

The medicine's strength is 500 milligrams.

Le dosage du médicament est de 500 milligrammes.

'Strength' refers to the concentration or dosage of a drug.

They are testing the strength of the new material.

Ils testent la résistance du nouveau matériau.

'Strength' refers to physical durability in engineering.

The storm gained strength as it moved across the ocean.

La tempête a gagné en force en traversant l'océan.

'Gained strength' means became more powerful.

His main strength as a teacher is his patience.

Sa principale force en tant qu'enseignant est sa patience.

'Strength' is used as a synonym for a positive attribute.

The company's financial strength is well-known.

La solidité financière de l'entreprise est bien connue.

'Financial strength' refers to economic stability and resources.

He was hired on the strength of his previous work experience.

Il a été embauché sur la base de son expérience professionnelle précédente.

'On the strength of' is an idiomatic phrase meaning 'based on'.

The protesters turned out in strength to voice their concerns.

Les manifestants sont venus en nombre pour exprimer leurs préoccupations.

'In strength' means in large numbers.

The tensile strength of the cable is critical for the bridge's safety.

La résistance à la traction du câble est cruciale pour la sécurité du pont.

'Tensile strength' is a specific engineering term.

She has the strength of character to admit when she is wrong.

Elle a la force de caractère pour admettre quand elle a tort.

'Strength of character' refers to moral integrity.

The strength of the evidence led to a quick conviction.

La force des preuves a conduit à une condamnation rapide.

'Strength' refers to how persuasive the evidence is.

He lacked the strength of will to quit smoking.

Il manquait de volonté pour arrêter de fumer.

'Strength of will' is a synonym for willpower.

The currency's strength against the dollar has increased.

La force de la monnaie par rapport au dollar a augmenté.

'Strength' refers to the exchange value of money.

The inherent strength of the democratic system is its ability to adapt.

La force intrinsèque du système démocratique est sa capacité à s'adapter.

'Inherent strength' refers to a built-in, essential quality.

The report highlights the strength of the correlation between the two variables.

Le rapport souligne la force de la corrélation entre les deux variables.

'Strength' in statistics refers to the degree of relationship.

Her performance was characterized by a remarkable strength of emotion.

Sa performance était caractérisée par une force d'émotion remarquable.

'Strength' refers to the intensity and impact of feelings.

The treaty's strength lies in its multi-lateral support.

La force du traité réside dans son soutien multilatéral.

'Strength' refers to the effectiveness or validity of an agreement.

He argued that the strength of the narrative was its realism.

Il a soutenu que la force du récit était son réalisme.

'Strength' refers to the most effective element of a story.

The material's compressive strength was tested under extreme conditions.

La résistance à la compression du matériau a été testée dans des conditions extrêmes.

'Compressive strength' is a technical term in materials science.

There is a certain strength in being able to admit one's vulnerabilities.

Il y a une certaine force à pouvoir admettre ses vulnérabilités.

This sentence uses 'strength' in a paradoxical, sophisticated way.

The strength of the signal was attenuated by the thick walls.

La force du signal a été atténuée par les murs épais.

'Attenuated' is a high-level verb often used with 'strength'.

The sheer strength of his conviction was enough to sway the entire assembly.

La force pure de sa conviction a suffi à influencer toute l'assemblée.

'Sheer strength' emphasizes the absolute power of the quality.

One must consider the strength of the legal precedent before filing the lawsuit.

Il faut considérer la force du précédent juridique avant de déposer la plainte.

'Strength' refers to the binding power of previous court decisions.

The philosophical strength of the argument is predicated on its logical consistency.

La force philosophique de l'argument repose sur sa cohérence logique.

'Predicated on' is a high-level phrase used to describe the basis of strength.

The strength of the bond between the two chemicals determines the molecule's stability.

La force de la liaison entre les deux produits chimiques détermine la stabilité de la molécule.

'Strength' refers to the electromagnetic force in chemistry.

The regime's strength was ultimately undermined by systemic corruption.

La force du régime a finalement été sapée par une corruption systémique.

'Undermined' is a common verb for the weakening of strength.

The strength of the prose lies in its evocative and sparse imagery.

La force de la prose réside dans son imagerie évocatrice et épurée.

'Strength' refers to the aesthetic power of writing.

He exhibited a quiet strength that commanded respect without the need for words.

Il faisait preuve d'une force tranquille qui imposait le respect sans avoir besoin de mots.

'Quiet strength' is a nuanced collocation for dignified power.

The strength of the magnetic field is measured in Teslas.

La force du champ magnétique est mesurée en Teslas.

'Strength' is used as a precise physical quantity.

Common Collocations

physical strength

inner strength

strength and weaknesses

signal strength

tensile strength

gain strength

full strength

strength of character

brute strength

strength of will

Common Phrases

on the strength of

— Based on or because of something.

He was hired on the strength of his resume.

in strength

— In large numbers.

The police arrived in strength.

from strength to strength

— Becoming more and more successful.

The company has gone from strength to strength.

play to your strengths

— Focus on what you are best at.

In the game, you should play to your strengths.

a tower of strength

— A person who gives great support and help.

My mother was a tower of strength during the move.

strength in numbers

— A group is more powerful than an individual.

They joined the union because there is strength in numbers.

give someone strength

— To provide support or encouragement.

Your kind words gave me strength.

test someone's strength

— To see how strong or resilient someone is.

The long hike really tested my strength.

with all one's strength

— Using as much power as possible.

He pushed the car with all his strength.

by strength of

— By using a particular quality.

He won by strength of personality.

Often Confused With

strength vs strong

'Strong' is an adjective (e.g., a strong man), while 'strength' is a noun (e.g., he has strength).

strength vs power

'Power' often implies control or authority, while 'strength' often implies an inherent quality or resistance.

strength vs force

'Force' usually refers to an active application of energy, while 'strength' is the capacity to exert that energy.

Idioms & Expressions

"What doesn't kill you makes you stronger"

— Difficult experiences can make a person more resilient.

After the breakup, she realized that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

informal

"A chain is only as strong as its weakest link"

— A group or system is only as effective as its least capable part.

We need to train everyone, as a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.

neutral

"Knowledge is power"

— Having information and education gives a person strength and influence.

He studied hard because he believed that knowledge is power.

neutral

"Might makes right"

— The idea that those who are powerful can do what they want.

In some ancient societies, people believed that might makes right.

neutral

"Strong-arm someone"

— To use force or pressure to make someone do something.

They tried to strong-arm him into signing the contract.

informal

"Go from strength to strength"

— To become increasingly successful or powerful.

Since the new CEO took over, the firm has gone from strength to strength.

neutral

"In the strength of"

— In the power or influence of something.

He walked in the strength of his convictions.

formal

"Draw strength from"

— To get support or inspiration from something or someone.

She drew strength from her faith.

neutral

"Show of strength"

— An action intended to demonstrate how powerful one is.

The military parade was a show of strength.

neutral

"Lend strength to"

— To make an argument or idea more convincing.

The new data lends strength to his theory.

neutral

Easily Confused

strength vs strong

Adjective vs Noun

'Strong' describes a person or thing; 'strength' is the name of the quality they possess.

He is strong. He has strength.

strength vs power

Synonyms

'Power' is more about the ability to do or control; 'strength' is more about the quality of being strong or durable.

The president has power. The bridge has strength.

strength vs force

Synonyms

'Force' is often a physical push or pull; 'strength' is the ability to provide that force.

The force of the wind. The strength of the athlete.

strength vs might

Synonyms

'Might' is more formal and often refers to the great power of a large entity like a nation.

The might of the army. The strength of the individual.

strength vs stamina

Related concepts

'Stamina' is the ability to keep going for a long time; 'strength' is the ability to exert a lot of power at once.

He has the strength to lift the weight, but not the stamina to run the race.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + has + strength.

He has strength.

[Something] is my strength.

Math is my strength.

The strength of the [noun] is [adjective].

The strength of the wind is high.

Subject + needs strength + to [verb].

She needs strength to carry the bags.

On the strength of [noun], [clause].

On the strength of his work, he was promoted.

[Adjective] strength (e.g., inner strength).

She found inner strength.

The inherent strength of [noun] lies in [noun/gerund].

The inherent strength of the plan lies in its simplicity.

The [noun]'s strength was [verb] by [noun].

The regime's strength was undermined by corruption.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in all domains.

Common Mistakes

He has a very strong. → He has great strength.
'Strong' is an adjective and cannot be used as a noun.
My strength are math and science. → My strengths are math and science.
When listing multiple things, you must use the plural 'strengths'.
I don't have the strength for do it. → I don't have the strength to do it.
The noun 'strength' is followed by 'to' + the base form of the verb.
The strenth of the wind was high. → The strength of the wind was high.
The word is spelled with a 'g' before the 'th'.
He is a strength man. → He is a strong man.
Use the adjective 'strong' to describe a person, not the noun 'strength'.

Tips

Noun vs Adjective

Always remember that 'strength' is the noun and 'strong' is the adjective. You have strength, and you are strong.

The 'gth' Ending

Don't forget the 'g' in 'strength'. It's a common spelling mistake to write 'strenth'.

Strengths and Weaknesses

In a professional context, always use the plural 'strengths' when talking about your skills.

Consonant Clusters

Practice the 'ngth' sound slowly. It's one of the most difficult clusters in English.

Inner Strength

Use 'inner strength' to describe someone's emotional resilience; it's a very common and positive collocation.

Engineering Terms

If you are in a technical field, learn specific terms like 'tensile strength' and 'compressive strength'.

On the Strength of

Use the phrase 'on the strength of' to mean 'based on' for a more sophisticated sounding sentence.

Synonyms

Try using 'fortitude' or 'resilience' instead of 'strength' to sound more formal or precise.

Variety

Avoid repeating 'strength' too many times in a paragraph; use synonyms like 'power' or 'might' where appropriate.

Word Family

Learn the whole word family: strong, strength, strengthen, strongly. This will help you use the word in different grammatical roles.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'STREng' (strong) person lifting a 'GTH' (great) weight. The word literally has 'strong' hidden inside it.

Visual Association

Imagine a bridge made of steel cables. Each cable represents a different kind of strength: physical, mental, and structural.

Word Web

muscle power resilience skill intensity durability fortitude force

Challenge

Try to use 'strength' in three different ways today: once for physical power, once for a skill you have, and once for a signal or intensity.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old English word 'strengthu', which comes from 'strang' (meaning strong).

Original meaning: The quality of being strong; power, force, or vigor.

Germanic (related to Old High German 'strengī').

Cultural Context

Be mindful that 'strength' can be a sensitive topic when discussing physical abilities or disabilities.

The phrase 'strengths and weaknesses' is a staple of American and British job interview culture.

The 'StrengthsFinder' book by Tom Rath. The 'Superman' character, known for his 'super strength'. The quote 'What doesn't kill us makes us stronger' by Friedrich Nietzsche.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Gym and Fitness

strength training
build muscle strength
test your strength
core strength

Job Interviews

What are your strengths?
play to your strengths
professional strengths
key strengths

Engineering

tensile strength
structural strength
material strength
breaking strength

Technology

signal strength
password strength
encryption strength
Wi-Fi strength

Personal Challenges

inner strength
strength of character
find the strength
draw strength from

Conversation Starters

"What do you think is your greatest professional strength?"

"Do you prefer strength training or cardio at the gym?"

"How do you find the inner strength to deal with a difficult day?"

"Have you ever been impressed by the strength of someone's argument?"

"What is the most important strength a leader should have?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you had to use your inner strength to overcome a challenge.

List three of your personal strengths and how they have helped you in life.

Describe a person you know who has a lot of 'strength of character'.

How do you think a person can build their mental strength?

Reflect on a time when you realized a weakness could actually be a strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It can be both. It is uncountable when referring to the general quality of being strong (e.g., 'He has great strength'). It is countable when referring to specific assets or skills (e.g., 'What are your strengths?').

'Strength' usually refers to an internal quality or the ability to resist force. 'Power' often refers to the ability to control others or the rate at which work is done. For example, a person has the strength to lift a weight, and a king has the power to rule a country.

It is pronounced /streŋθ/. The most important part is the 'ng' sound followed by the 'th' sound. Many people mistakenly omit the 'g' and say 'strenth'.

'Inner strength' refers to mental and emotional resilience. It is the ability to stay brave and determined during difficult times, even if you don't have a lot of physical power.

'Tensile strength' is a technical term in engineering. It refers to the maximum amount of pulling stress a material can withstand before it breaks.

No, 'strong' is an adjective. You should say 'I have a lot of strength' or 'I am very strong'.

It means to focus on doing the things that you are already very good at, rather than trying to improve your weaknesses.

'Signal strength' refers to the power of a wireless signal, such as Wi-Fi or a cellular connection. More 'bars' on your phone mean higher signal strength.

Usually, yes. Employers want to hear about multiple skills or qualities that make you a good candidate, so they ask for your 'strengths'.

The most common opposite is 'weakness'. Other opposites include 'frailty', 'vulnerability', and 'debility'.