German word

stärken

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈʃtɛɐ̯kən/

Meaning

  • verbstrengthen

Example

Das Training stärkt die Muskeln.

The training strengthens the muscles.

Illustration for stärken (strengthen)

More examples

Tägliches Sprechen mit Muttersprachlern stärkt die Sprachkenntnisse.

Speaking with native speakers every day strengthens language skills.

Core concept

A person, body, or structure gains extra power and resilience from added support.

Common phrases

  • die Sprachkenntnisse stärken

    strengthen language skills

  • die Kompetenzen stärken

    strengthen competencies

Similar words

unterstützen: To provide help or resources that support an activity or its success.
fördern: To encourage and advance growth, development, or learning.
verstärken: To make an effect, action, or force more intense.

Definition in German

Jemanden oder etwas durch Nahrung, Übung oder Hilfe kräftiger oder belastbarer machen.

Word origin

Stärken developed from Middle High German sterken and Old High German starc, and is related to German stark.

Usage tips

  • Stärken normally takes an accusative object, while sich stärken means to restore one's own strength, often through food or rest.

Other meanings

  • reinforceverb
  • encourageverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word