Reinforce Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
reinforce
[หriห.ษชnหfษหrs ]
Definitions
in construction
Strengthen or support (an object or substance), especially with additional material.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reinforce |
This word is typically used in situations where you want to make something stronger or more solid, often by adding more material or support. It can be used both in physical and abstract contexts.
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| strengthen |
This word covers a wide range of contexts and is used when making something stronger or more effective, including muscles, structures, relationships, and more.
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| support |
Used in both emotional and physical contexts, this word often means to keep something or someone upright or to help them succeed. It can also refer to holding up a structure.
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| bolster |
Often used when you want to add support or strength to something that already exists but may be weak or lacking in some way. It's frequently used in the context of emotional or moral support.
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Examples of usage
- The concrete wall was reinforced with steel bars.
- He reinforced the door with a metal frame.
in behavior
Encourage or strengthen (a behavior, feeling, or idea).
Synonyms
encourage, reinstate, strengthen.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reinforce |
Use when talking about making something stronger, especially by adding extra support or material. Commonly used in contexts of construction, behavior reinforcement, or strengthening arguments.
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| encourage |
Use when trying to give someone confidence or support to do something. Often used in personal or professional settings to motivate or uplift someone.
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| strengthen |
Use when making something stronger or more effective. Can be used in various contexts like physical strength, emotional resilience, or policies.
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Examples of usage
- Positive feedback can reinforce good behavior.
- His smile reinforced her confidence.
in military
The action or process of reinforcing or strengthening.
Synonyms
backup, strengthening, support.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reinforce |
Use this word when you want to make something stronger or more effective. It is often used in both physical and abstract contexts, like structural improvements or reinforcing an argument.
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| strengthening |
This word is often used to describe the process of making something stronger, whether it be muscles, relationships, or policies. It indicates a gradual or ongoing improvement.
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| backup |
This word is used when you need a reserve or substitute to ensure that systems or plans continue without interruption. It is often used in digital contexts, like data backup, or in general to mean someone or something that can replace another in case of failure.
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| support |
This word is used when providing assistance, help, or endorsement to someone or something. It can be physical, emotional, or financial. It's a very broad term and has a generally positive connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The reinforcement of the troops was crucial for the success of the mission.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In behavior psychology, reinforcement refers to any consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again.
- Positive reinforcement involves rewarding desired behavior, while negative reinforcement involves removing something unpleasant.
- The use of incentives in learning environments is a practical application of reinforcement principles.
Construction
- In construction, reinforcing materials like steel bars (rebar) are added to concrete to improve its tensile strength.
- Reinforced concrete is essential for skyscrapers and bridges, enabling them to withstand various stresses.
- The concept of reinforcement also applies to natural structures, such as the use of buttresses in Gothic architecture.
Education
- Teachers often use reinforcement techniques, like praise or rewards, to encourage positive student behaviors.
- Peer tutoring or group work in class can reinforce learning by allowing students to teach each other.
- Reinforcement is also a vital part of developing new skills, as practice strengthens the learning process.
Pop Culture
- In superhero films, when heroes team up to strengthen their efforts against villains, they reinforce one anotherโs powers.
- The idea of reinforcement appears in various video games, where players must strengthen their characters or structures.
- Team sports demonstrate reinforcement as players work together, providing each other support to achieve success.
Origin of 'reinforce'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'reinforcare', where 're-' means 'again' and 'fortis' means 'strong'.
- The concept has been in use since the 14th century, originally relating to military support.
- In the 19th century, the term expanded into fields beyond the military, including education and psychology.
The word 'reinforce' originated in the late 17th century from French 'renforcer', based on Latin 'reforcere'. The concept of reinforcing has been essential in various fields, such as construction, behavior psychology, and military strategy, for centuries.
See also: reinforcement, reinforcing.
Word Frequency Rank
Position #8,213 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.
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- 8210 substituting
- 8211 cancel
- 8212 obtainable
- 8213 reinforce
- 8214 discovering
- 8215 decorative
- 8216 aromatic
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