en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Comparing the power of "bolster" and "strengthen"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 05/11/2024, 06:39
English.me team member
Bolster and strengthen. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "bolster" and "strengthen" refer to the act of making something more robust or supporting it to become more effective or stronger. They can both be used in contexts where support, reinforcement, or enhancement is implied.

What is different?

The word "bolster" typically implies providing additional support or reinforcement to something, often with the connotation of providing support from underneath or shoring up. It can be both literal and metaphorical. "Strengthen" is more general and refers to the process of making something stronger or more resilient without necessarily implying the means or method of doing so. It is often used more broadly without the implication of providing support from below or from within.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for bolster) and strengthen

Examples of usage

Bolster
  • They bolstered the old bridge with additional beams.
  • The presence of a mentor can bolster a student's confidence.
  • The government's move to bolster the economy was well-received.
Strengthen
  • Regular exercise helps to strengthen muscles.
  • The team sought to strengthen their communication skills.
  • Measures were taken to strengthen the company's financial position.

Recommended posts in Difference

"Leader" vs. "captain": guiding principles and roles compared

"Leader" vs. "captain": guiding principles and roles compared

"Leader" is a more general term that can apply to ... Learn more →

"Wound" vs. "injure": untangling the language of harm

"Wound" vs. "injure": untangling the language of harm

"Wound" often implies a cut or break in the skin, ... Learn more →

"Antithetical" vs. "contradictory": words in contrast

"Antithetical" vs. "contradictory": words in contrast

The word "antithetical" specifically denotes a relationship of direct opposition ... Learn more →

Comparing "repugnant" and "vile": shades of distaste

Comparing "repugnant" and "vile": shades of distaste

"Repugnant" often conveys a strong sense of moral or ethical ... Learn more →