reinforce
ree-in-FORSS
/ˌriː.ɪnˈfɔːrs/
To strengthen or support, especially with additional personnel or material.
Often implies adding more of the same thing to make the whole stronger.
The story behind the word. From the French 'renforcer'. It combines 're-' (again) and 'enforcier' (to make strong). It literally means 'to make strong again' or 'to add more strength'.
Word relationships
- strengthen: Strengthen is general; reinforce specifically implies adding extra support or material.
- undermine: To undermine is to weaken the base, whereas reinforce adds strength.
Commonly confused with
- bolster: Bolster is like propping up from the outside; reinforce is often about strengthening from within or adding more layers.
Word family
- reinforcement (noun): The action of strengthening or the extra people/materials used.
Collocations
- reinforce a message
- reinforce a stereotype
- reinforce the structure
Example sentences
- "The concrete was reinforced with steel rods to prevent cracking." Construction
- "Positive feedback can reinforce good habits in students." Behavioral psychology
Memory hook
RE-IN-FORCE: Put more FORCE IN again. Add more force.
When not to use
Don't use it when you mean 'to start over'; it's about adding to what exists.
Fun facts
- In military terms, 'reinforcements' are extra troops sent to help a struggling unit.
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