B2verb2K

Reinforce

UK /["/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs/","/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːsɪz/","/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːst/","/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːsɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrs/","/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrsɪz/","/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrst/","/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrsɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make a feeling, an idea, etc. stronger

In simple words: To make something stronger or better.

Examples

  • The teacher decided to reinforce the lesson with additional exercises.
  • The soldiers were sent to reinforce the troops on the front lines.
  • We need to reinforce our marketing strategies to improve sales.
  • She used the opportunity to reinforce her position in the company.
  • To reinforce the bridge, engineers added extra supports underneath.

Usage notes

Used in both casual and professional settings. Common when discussing ideas, skills, or physical structures. Avoid in overly informal conversations.

Grammar pattern

reinforce + object

Memory hint

Think of a strong 'rein' on a horse that helps control it better.

Collocations

  • greatly
  • powerfully
  • strongly
  • help (to)
  • serve to
  • tend to
  • heavily
  • with

Synonyms

  • strengthen
  • support
  • fortify
  • bolster
  • enhance

Antonyms

  • weaken
  • diminish
  • undermine

Common mistakes

  • 'Reinforce' incorrectly used with objects that don't require strengthening, e.g., emotions.
  • Confusing 'reinforce' with 'enforce', which means to compel observance.
  • Using 'reinforced' when the context calls for 'reinforcing'.