strong
Strong (adjective) means Physically powerful; capable of exerting or withstanding great force. Example: “You need to be strong to lift those weights.”
How to use strong
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving great power, force, intensity, or conviction.
Word forms
stronger comparative, strongest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
You need to be _____ to lift those weights.
Etymology
From Old English strang, from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "tight" or "stiff" — the same root behind "string" and "strict."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for strong
See all rhymes for strong →Frequently asked questions
What does “strong” mean?
The word “strong” means physically powerful; capable of exerting or withstanding great force. In plain terms, having great power, force, intensity, or conviction.
How do you pronounce “strong”?
“Strong” is pronounced strong (/stɹɔŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “strong” in a sentence?
Here is “strong” used in a sentence: “You need to be strong to lift those weights.”
What is the opposite of “strong”?
The opposite of “strong” — its antonyms — are forcelessly, powerlessly and weakly.
What part of speech is “strong”?
“Strong” is an adjective.
Where does the word “strong” come from?
The word “strong” comes from Old English. From Old English strang, from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "tight" or "stiff" — the same root behind "string" and "strict.".
Is “strong” a common word?
“Strong” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “strong” have?
“Strong” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: physically powerful; capable of exerting or withstanding great force.
What is the difference between strong and powerful?
"Strong" describes the capacity to exert or resist physical force; a strong person can lift heavy weights. "Powerful" is broader, adding influence, authority, or energy, as in a powerful engine or a powerful leader. All powerful things have force behind them, but strength is specifically about physical might and resilience.
What is the opposite of strong?
The main opposite of strong is "weak," describing a lack of physical power or the inability to withstand force. Depending on context, "frail," "feeble," or "delicate" also work, especially for people or materials that break or tire easily. Each contrasts with the idea of being physically powerful.
Can a person become stronger?
Yes. Physical strength can be built through exercise, particularly resistance and weight training, which increases muscle size and the force a person can exert. Nutrition and rest also matter. While people have natural differences, almost anyone can grow measurably stronger over time by regularly challenging their muscles against resistance.
What is an example of 'strong' used physically?
"He was strong enough to carry the sofa upstairs alone" shows physical power, the ability to exert great force. It also applies to things that withstand force, as in "a strong rope" or "strong walls," which resist breaking, tearing, or collapsing under pressure without giving way.
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