Stronger: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
Stronger – Definition and Part of Speech
The term “stronger” serves as a comparative adjective derived from the base adjective “strong.” It signifies having more strength or intensity than something else in comparison. The primary part of speech is adjectival, although its usage can influence verbs (e.g., “become stronger”) or nouns when used attributively (e.g., “a stronger team”). “Stronger” contrasts with the base form “strong” and the superlative “strongest.”
Core Synonyms
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| More Powerful | Greater in power or force, often used to convey authority or capability | “The more powerful engine improved the car’s performance.” | Formal/Business |
| Vigorously | With great physical strength and energy; implies active exertion | “She spoke vigorously in defense of her proposal.” | Formal/Informal |
| Robust | Having a strong, healthy, or vigorous quality; often used for systems or structures | “The robust design ensured the building could withstand harsh weather.” | Academic/Formal |
| Sturdier | More solid and durable, implying resistance to damage | “They opted for a sturdier fence to prevent intruders.” | Casual/Informal |
| Hardy | Capable of enduring difficult conditions; implies resilience | “The hardy plants survived the winter with minimal care.” | Informal/Academic |
Usage Notes
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More Powerful: This synonym is often used in contexts where authority, influence, or capability are emphasized. It’s common in business writing and formal discussions about leadership, technology, or organizational changes.
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Example Context: In a corporate setting, discussing the advantages of acquiring another company might involve stating that “The merged entity will be more powerful.”
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Vigorously: When emphasizing action taken with energy and enthusiasm, “vigorously” is appropriate. It fits well in both formal reports (describing efforts or actions) and casual conversation.
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Example Context: In an academic paper discussing advocacy strategies, one might say, “The group advocated vigorously for environmental reforms.”
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Robust: This term conveys resilience and strength, often used to describe systems, structures, or processes that are well-designed to withstand challenges. It’s suitable in technical reports or formal analyses.
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Example Context: In engineering studies, it is common to describe a software as having “a robust framework capable of handling large volumes of data.”
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Sturdier: Ideal for everyday language when talking about physical objects that need to be solid and durable, such as furniture or materials in construction.
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Example Context: A casual conversation about home improvements might include, “We decided on sturdier chairs for the kitchen table.”
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Hardy: Frequently used to describe plants, animals, or systems that are resilient in tough conditions. This word suits informal discussions and some academic contexts related to biology or ecology.
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Example Context: In gardening columns, you might read, “These hardy varieties of tulips require little maintenance.”
Common Pitfalls
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Confusion with “Strong”: It’s crucial to differentiate between the base form “strong” and its comparative form “stronger.” Using them interchangeably can lead to grammatical inaccuracies or awkward phrasing.
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Misapplication in Different Registers: Some synonyms like “robust” might feel out of place in very informal settings where simpler words like “sturdier” would suffice. Recognizing the register helps maintain appropriate tone and clarity.
Final Recap
The word “stronger” has several practical synonyms, including “more powerful,” “vigorously,” “robust,” “sturdier,” and “hardy.” Each brings a specific nuance to discussions of strength or resilience across various contexts. Understanding these subtleties can enhance both written and spoken communication in formal, informal, academic, and business settings.
To truly master the use of these synonyms, practice crafting sentences with each term in different scenarios. This will help solidify their meanings and applications, making your vocabulary more versatile and precise.