Reinforcement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💪

Add to dictionary

reinforcement

[ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrsmənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

learning process

The process of encouraging or establishing a pattern of behavior by either offering a reward or punishment.

Synonyms

encouragement, incentive, reward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reinforcement	Used in a psychological or educational setting to describe the process of encouraging a specific behavior by offering a reward or punishment. The teacher used positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior in the classroom. In training the dog, he relied on reinforcement techniques to ensure consistency.
reward	Used when talking about something given in return for effort, service, or achievement, generally tangible and often material. She received a reward for her hard work and dedication to the project. The missing pet was found and the finder was given a reward.
encouragement	Used when giving someone support, confidence, or hope, typically in a general, friendly, or motivational setting. Her words of encouragement helped him to keep going when things got tough. The coach offered encouragement to the team during halftime.
incentive	Used in economic or business contexts to describe something that motivates or encourages someone to do something, usually by offering a tangible reward. The company offered a bonus as an incentive for employees to meet their sales targets. Tax reductions can serve as an incentive for small businesses to invest.

Examples of usage

Positive reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.
Negative reinforcement involves removing an unpleasant stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

construction

The action or process of strengthening or supporting a structure.

Synonyms

bracing, strengthening, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reinforcement	Similar to the first term 'reinforcement', used interchangeably in the same contexts like structural support, military backup, or psychological contexts. They called for reinforcements when the battle intensified. Her determination was a reinforcement against doubts.
strengthening	Often used in general contexts where increasing strength or making something stronger or more effective is intended. The company focused on strengthening its position in the market. He is taking vitamins to help with the strengthening of his immune system.
support	A versatile term that can be used to describe physical, emotional, or financial assistance or foundation. The bridge required additional support due to increased traffic. She gave him emotional support during the tough times. The family needs financial support to pay for medical expenses.
bracing	Usually applied in contexts where stabilization, especially physical stabilization, is needed. The workers installed bracing to prevent the structure from collapsing. He felt a bracing wind as he walked by the sea.

Examples of usage

Steel rods are often used for reinforcement in concrete construction.
Adding extra layers of material can provide additional reinforcement to the structure.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'reinforcement'

The word 'reinforcement' originated from the verb 'reinforce', which comes from the Old French word 'reforcier', meaning 'to strengthen'. The concept of reinforcement has been extensively studied in psychology, particularly in the context of behaviorism and learning theories.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,942 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
6939 bee
6940 imprisoned
6941 porch
6942 reinforcement
6943 aperture
6944 theirs
6945 thyroid
...