Fortifying: meaning, definitions and examples

Primarily used in contexts related to improving strength, defense, or resilience, often in physical or nutritional scenarios.

• We need to start fortifying our home against possible intruders.
• The cereal is fortifying with essential vitamins and minerals.

Used in situations where increasing force, durability, or robustness is needed. Applicable in physical, emotional, or conceptual contexts.

• Regular exercise will strengthen your muscles.
• Programs designed to strengthen community bonds are essential for societal well-being.

Typically refers to adding value, quality, or nutrient content to something. Often used in educational, cultural, or nutritional contexts.

• Reading a variety of books can greatly enrich your knowledge.
• The soil can be enriched with compost to improve plant growth.

Commonly used to describe a quick or sudden increase in power, morale, or effectiveness. It can also relate to encouragement or support.

• Drinking a cup of coffee always gives me a boost in the morning.
• The company launched a new marketing campaign to boost sales.

Used when talking about making something stronger or more secure, often in a physical or structural sense. However, it can also be used metaphorically for strengthening resolve or confidence.

• They are fortifying the walls of the castle to better defend against attacks.
• Drinking this vitamin-rich smoothie is a great way to fortify your immune system.

Used in a broad range of contexts, both physical and abstract, to describe the act of making something stronger or more effective.

• Regular exercise will strengthen your muscles.
• We need to strengthen our argument with more evidence.

This word is often used in contexts where something already exists and needs additional support or strengthening, whether that be physical structures, ideas, or behaviors.

• We need to reinforce the bridge to ensure it can handle heavier traffic.
• Their success serves to reinforce the idea that hard work pays off.

Typically used in social or personal contexts where the goal is to give someone the confidence, authority, or strength to do something. It has a positive connotation.

• The workshop aims to empower women to pursue leadership roles.
• Giving employees more responsibility can empower them to perform better.