strengthstrength /streŋθ, strenθ/ ●●● S2 W2 noun 
She didn’t even have the strength to stand up. I’m trying to build up my strength. Jo hit him with all her strength. He never ceased to be amazed by her physical strength.2determination [uncountable] the quality of being brave or determined in dealing with difficult or unpleasant situationshave/find the strength to do something Jenny didn’t have the strength to end the relationship. She had enormous strength of character (=strong ability to deal with difficult situations).strength of mind/purpose The sea was very cold and it required great strength of mind to get in. I think you have to find an inner strength in order to feel good about yourself. → tower of strength at tower1(3)3feeling/belief [uncountable] how strong a feeling, belief, or relationship is SYN depthstrength of Governments cannot ignore the strength of public opinion. We understand the strength of feeling against the proposal.4organization/country etc [uncountable] the political, military, or economic power of an organization, country, or systemstrength of the strength of the US economy The socialists organized a show of strength (=when a country or organization shows how strong it is).5useful quality or ability [countable] a particular quality or ability that gives someone or something an advantage OPP weakness: Her main strength is her critical thinking ability.strength of The great strength of our plan lies in its simplicity. Be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses.6object [uncountable] how strong an object or structure is, especially its ability to last for a long time without breaking OPP weaknessstrength of a device for testing the strength of concrete structures7substance/mixture [countable, uncountable] how strong a substance or mixture is: Add water to dilute the solution to the required strength.full-strength/half-strength/double-strength etc Young plants can be fed with half-strength liquid fertilizer.8number of people [uncountable] the number of people in a team, army etc: The Edinburgh team are now at full strength.below strength The police force is below strength at the moment (=there are fewer police than there should be).in strength Security forces were out in strength (=in large numbers) but did not intervene.9money [uncountable] the value of a country’s money when compared to other countries’ moneystrength of the strength of the dollar on the international money markets10on the strength of something because of something: I bought the book on the strength of your recommendation.11position of strength a position where you have an advantage over someone, especially in a discussion: We must negotiate from a position of strength.12go from strength to strength to become more and more successful: For several years, the business went from strength to strength.13natural force [uncountable] how strong a natural force is: the strength of the sunlight14colour/light/flavour/smell etc [uncountable] how strong a colour, taste etc is15give me strength! spoken used when you are annoyed or angry about something16not know your own strength to not realize how strong you areCOLLOCATIONS– Meaning 1adjectivesphysical strength· Some of the tasks required considerable physical strength.great/enormous strength· Hercules was famous for his great strength.superhuman strength (=much greater than ordinary strength)· In the movie, Walsh performs feats of superhuman strength.superior strength (=greater than someone else's)· Using his superior strength, Rocky dragged the struggling Larsen another twenty yards back.brute strength (=physical strength rather than intelligence or careful thinking)· There is more to wrestling than brute strength. Tactics are important too.full strength· It takes time to get your full strength back after you have been ill.verbshave the strength to do something· He didn't even have the strength to sit up.find the strength to do something· Mary found the strength to climb up onto the upturned boat.use your strength· He used all his strength to heave the door shut.gather/muster/summon your strength (=get enough strength to do something)· He sat for a couple of minutes, gathering his strength.build up your strength (=make yourself stronger)· You need to build up your strength.gain strength· After the operation, he spent several weeks relaxing and gaining strength.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 2adjectivesgreat strength· She showed great strength in dealing with her problems.inner strength· Geoff had an inner strength which got him through the tough times.mental strength· He's a player who has the skill and the mental strength to win.verbshave the strength to do something· This proved that he has the strength to cope with such a high-powered job.find the strength to do something· Paula had found the strength to escape from an abusive marriage.gain/draw strength from somebody/something· He gained strength from being back with the people and things he loved.show strength· The decision to continue shows incredible strength and courage.phrasesstrength of character (=strong ability to deal with difficult situations)· The victims' families have shown amazing strength of character.strength of purpose/mind (=determination to do something)· In pursuing this ambition, William showed remarkable strength of purpose.a source of strength (=person or thing that makes you brave or determined)· Her faith had always been a source of strength for her.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 5adjectivesa great strength· Diversity is one of India's greatest strengths.a real strength· The play's real strength is the way it explores relationships.verbsbuild on/capitalize on a strength (=use it as a basis for further achievement)· The organization must move forward and capitalize on its strengths.play to your strengths (=use people's qualities and abilities in the best way in order to achieve something)· Both parties are playing to their strengths.identify strengths· The teacher can identify each child's strengths and build on these.know somebody's strengths· It's important to know your strengths as well as your weaknesses.somebody's/something's strength lies in something· The show's strength lies in the fact that it appeals to all ages.phrasesstrengths and weaknesses· All technologies have different strengths and weaknesses.
WORD ORIGINstrength
Origin:
Old English strengthuEXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- Before choosing a career you should spend time identifying your personal strengths and weaknesses.
- Bill was doing a lot of exercise to build up his strength.
- Diana pulled on the rope with all her strength.
- His ability to charm people is one of his greatest strengths.
- I didn't have the strength to climb any further.
- Men are better at some sports because of their greater physical strength.
- moral strength
- Regular gym sessions will improve both your health and strength.
- Fitness programs feature water aerobics, self-defense techniques and strength training.
- He had all the strength it would take to kill an adult person, let alone a baby.
- His is constantly pre-occupied with fitness, strength, and staying in peak condition.
- She felt her strength ebbing but remained calm.
- The strength of this book is that it puts flesh on the bare bones of this argument.
- The analysis was completed by a tabulation of results which consolidated the risk scores and financial strength ratings.
- The opposition mounted, but Johnson was probably right in asserting that its strength was overstated.
Longman Language Activatorto have an advantage
to have something that makes you more likely to succeed than other people: · The American team seemed to have all the advantages - better training, better facilities, and much better financial support.have an advantage over: · The winning boxer had an advantage over his opponent because he was several pounds heavier.
if someone is at an advantage , they have experience or qualities which make them more likely to succeed in doing something or more likely to do something well: · Students with a strong math background will be at an advantage next year when the statistics course starts.be at an advantage over: · Children have several advantages over adults when it comes to learning another language.distinct advantage (=definite advantage): · Mitchell's height gives him a distinct advantage over the other players.
British /the odds are stacked in somebody's favor American used to say that someone has a big advantage in a competition, election etc so that they are very likely to win: · Everyone knows that you can't win at gambling because the odds are stacked in the dealer's favour.· The odds were stacked in the Labour Party's favour, so it was a great surprise when they were not elected.
to have a big advantage over others in a particular activity, especially because you started doing it before them: have a head start on: · The British have a head start on many other countries in areas such as genetic engineering. give somebody a head start: · Sending your children to nursery school clearly gives them a head start.
to have all the qualities that are likely to make you succeed in whatever you decide to do: · She was bright and pretty and had everything going for her.· Barry had everything going for him -- charm, looks, intelligence, but still he was unemployed.
to have an advantage over others because you are young, have a lot of experience etc: · He is a strong player but his opponent will have youth on his side.· With knowledge of the company on her side, she was more likely to get the job than any of the external candidates.
to have all the advantages in a particular situation so that you can control what happens: · It seemed that he held all the cards and that there was nothing she could do but say 'yes'.
to have more power than someone, especially someone who is fighting against you or who does not agree with you, so that you are likely to defeat them: · Although the rebels control areas in the south, the government still has the upper hand. have the upper hand against: · Police finally have the upper hand against the drug dealers in the area.
to be in a position where you have an advantage over someone and are likely to win, especially in discussions to get something from them: · The government claims that as long as they have nuclear weapons, they can negotiate from a position of strength.· At the end of the war, the US was in a strong position to influence the future of Europe.
something that you are especially good at something that you are particularly good at in your job, in a sport, or in your life in general: · Before choosing a career you should spend time identifying your personal strengths and weaknesses.· His ability to charm people is one of his greatest strengths.
to be the activity that you are best at: · Love songs have become Bolton's forte.· She's much better in the longer races. Short distances are not her forte.
when a lot of people or things do something at the same time use this to say that a lot of people or things do something, or go or appear somewhere all at the same time: · During the dry season animals gather in large numbers around the water holes.· Young people are leaving the countryside and moving to the city in large numbers.
if people go somewhere in droves , they go in large numbers especially when this surprises you: · Nurses are leaving the profession in droves.· People came in droves to watch the fireworks display.
if people go somewhere in force or in strength a lot of them go together so that there is a large number of them in a particular place: · The police arrived in force to break up the crowd of demonstrators.· If Latino voters turn out in strength for the next election, results could be very different.
if people do something by the hundreds or by the thousands very large groups of them are doing it at the same time: · People in the drought-stricken region are dying by the hundreds.· From all over the country, people came by the thousands to pay respect to their dead leader.
if messages, events etc come thick and fast , a lot of them suddenly come or happen in a short time: · At first no one was interested in the job but now applications are coming in thick and fast.· Rumours flew thick and fast that the company was going to be sold.
to be dying or suddenly becoming ill in large numbers: · In the middle of the cholera epidemic, people were dropping like flies.· When Sam reached 70, it seemed his friends started dying like flies.
physical strength the ability to lift or carry heavy things, to do a lot of physical work etc: · Men are better at some sports because of their greater physical strength.· Regular gym sessions will improve both your health and strength.· I didn't have the strength to climb any further.· Diana pulled on the rope with all her strength.build up your strength: · Bill was doing a lot of exercise to build up his strength.
a lot of physical strength in a particular part of your body: · Mike had tremendous power in his forearms.· A dynamometer is used to measure muscle power.
physical strength, use this especially to compare strength with intelligence or skill: · You can't be good at tennis if you rely on brawn alone -- it takes skill as well.· The battle was won by brain rather than brawn.
physical strength that is needed to be able to push, pull, or lift something: · I had to use force to get the window open.physical force: · The use of physical force by teachers tended to promote violent behaviour by pupils.
the ability to work hard, run, play sports etc for a long time without getting tired: · You need stamina to be a long-distance runner.· exercises to increase your strength and stamina
the ability to continue doing something difficult until it is finished: · You have to admire her staying power. No one else has managed to stick that job for more than a year!· Ahmedi's performances were world-class in the 1500 metres but he just didn't have the staying power for longer races.
the physical and mental strength you need to be able to continue in a very difficult, unpleasant, or uncomfortable situation for a long time: · The people showed great courage, patience, and endurance during the long years of the war.endurance test: · The triathlon is the ultimate endurance test.test of somebody's endurance (=a situation that needs great endurance): · The expeditions behind enemy lines were a tremendous test of one's endurance and nerves.
to make someone or something weak · Her long illness has weakened her so much that she has difficulty walking.· The city's defences had been weakened by enemy shelling.
if something such as too much work or worry saps your strength or energy , it gradually takes away your energy and makes you weaker: · They were travelling very slowly, and the heavy load they were carrying sapped their strength.· The constant tension was sapping my energy.
written a debilitating disease or condition makes you physically or mentally weak: · He was still suffering the debilitating effects of flu.· The conditions under which doctors work are increasingly unhealthy and debilitating.
WORD SETSanticyclone, nounarid, adjectivebarometer, nouncirrus, nounclimate, nounclimatic, adjectivecloudbank, nouncold front, nouncontrary, adjectivecumulus, nouncyclone, noundeluge, noundepression, nounduster, noundust storm, nounequatorial, adjectivefront, nounfrontal system, nounheadwind, nounhumidity, nounhurricane, nouninversion, nounisobar, nounisotherm, nounjet stream, nounleeward, adjectivelow, nounlow-pressure, nounmaelstrom, nounmirage, nounmonsoon, nounnimbus, nounnorth, adjectivenortheast, adjectivenortheaster, nounnortheasterly, adjectivenortherly, adjectivenorthwest, adjectivenorthwester, nounnorthwesterly, adjectiveonshore, adjectivepeasouper, nounpowder, nounprecipitation, nounrainfall, nounrain gauge, nounrainstorm, nounsandstorm, nounsea breeze, nounsemitropical, adjectivesheet lightning, nounshipping forecast, nounshower, nounshowery, adjectivesirocco, nounsleet, nounslush, nounsmog, nounsouth, adjectivesoutheast, adjectivesoutheasterly, adjectivesoutherly, adjectivesouthwest, adjectivesouthwesterly, adjectivesprinkle, nounsquall, nounsqually, adjectivestill, adjectivestorm, nounstorm cloud, nounstormy, adjectivestrength, nounsubside, verbsubtropical, adjectivesub-zero, adjectivetailwind, nountempest, nounthaw, verbthaw, nounthermal, nounthermometer, nounthunder, nounthunder, verbthunderbolt, nounthunderclap, nounthundercloud, nounthunderstorm, nounthundery, adjectivetidal, adjectivetidal wave, nountornado, nountorrid, adjectivetrade wind, nountropical, adjectivetrough, nountsunami, nounturbulence, nounturbulent, adjectivetwister, nountyphoon, nounwarm front, nounwaterspout, nounweather, nounweatherman, nounweather vane, nounwest, adjectivewesterly, adjectivewhirlwind, nounwhiteout, noun
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY Meaning 1adjectives men who were chosen for their independence of mind Her long illness was gradually sapping Charlotte’s strength. It will require a superhuman effort to get the job done on time. The kids are really taxing my patience today. The plan has strengths and weaknesses.
· Some of the tasks required considerable physical strength.
· Hercules was famous for his great strength.
(=much greater than ordinary strength)· In the movie, Walsh performs feats of superhuman strength.
(=greater than someone else's)· Using his superior strength, Rocky dragged the struggling Larsen another twenty yards back.
(=physical strength rather than intelligence or careful thinking)· There is more to wrestling than brute strength. Tactics are important too.
· It takes time to get your full strength back after you have been ill.
verbs· He didn't even have the strength to sit up.
· Mary found the strength to climb up onto the upturned boat.
· He used all his strength to heave the door shut.
(=get enough strength to do something)· He sat for a couple of minutes, gathering his strength.
(=make yourself stronger)· You need to build up your strength.
· After the operation, he spent several weeks relaxing and gaining strength.
Meaning 2adjectives· She showed great strength in dealing with her problems.
· Geoff had an inner strength which got him through the tough times.
· He's a player who has the skill and the mental strength to win.
verbs· This proved that he has the strength to cope with such a high-powered job.
· Paula had found the strength to escape from an abusive marriage.
· He gained strength from being back with the people and things he loved.
· The decision to continue shows incredible strength and courage.
phrases (=strong ability to deal with difficult situations)· The victims' families have shown amazing strength of character.
(=determination to do something)· In pursuing this ambition, William showed remarkable strength of purpose.
(=person or thing that makes you brave or determined)· Her faith had always been a source of strength for her.
Meaning 5adjectives· Diversity is one of India's greatest strengths.
· The play's real strength is the way it explores relationships.
verbs (=use it as a basis for further achievement)· The organization must move forward and capitalize on its strengths.
(=use people's qualities and abilities in the best way in order to achieve something)· Both parties are playing to their strengths.
· The teacher can identify each child's strengths and build on these.
· It's important to know your strengths as well as your weaknesses.
· The show's strength lies in the fact that it appeals to all ages.
phrases· All technologies have different strengths and weaknesses.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES· He is beginning to gain strength again after his illness.
men who were chosen for their independence of mind· This exercise will help increase muscle strength.
· The murder could have been committed only by a man of enormous physical strength.
(=a strong position)· By now they were negotiating from a position of strength.
· First he must rest and regain his strength.
Her long illness was gradually sapping Charlotte’s strength. It will require a superhuman effort to get the job done on time.· He used his superior strength to wrestle Ben to the ground.
The kids are really taxing my patience today. The plan has strengths and weaknesses.· She had achieved success by sheer strength of will.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE· Behind whatever economic and military strength the papacy possessed, there existed enormous and immeasurable power as a moral force.· It will mean strong and continued emphasis on investment for economic strength.· Is not that the most telling argument as to the comparative economic strength of this country?· As a huge block of population and economic strength, the Community will be formidable.· Numbers alone did not mean automatic economic and political strength.· Our increasing economic strength means that resources for care have gown and are growing.
· The analysis was completed by a tabulation of results which consolidated the risk scores and financial strength ratings.· Our restaurant business has tremendous financial strength and a very bright future.· Newco's options depend on these factors, as well as on the time available and the financial strength of the vendor.· Balance sheets depict the financial strength of an enterprise at any single point in time.· The acquirer will obviously want warranties and indemnities to be given by people with financial strength.· We have the financial strength to do it.· It believes the figures on this basis give a much fairer picture of business performance and underlying financial strength.· Profitability High liquidity ratios indicate short-term financial strength but do not measure efficiency of utilization of resources.
· His companion had returned to full strength.· Neither team was close to full strength.· Welshpool are at full strength for the third division derby at unchanged Montgomery.· Two Western superpowers, hoping to force the other to blink, despite negotiating at less than full strength.· I was a different man, full of strength and excitement.· The shift was ended, the sun was not yet up, though it was daylight, full strength and gray.· At full strength it will have 38 members.
· Very strong in his own way, not swaggering or throwing his weight about, but a great inner strength.· The whole approach is flexible and has a great strength in the direct link to the highest administrative body.· But in my educating myself it proved to be a great strength.· In some cases it also helped to underline the main moments in the action by emphasising gestures for greater strength and expression.· The benefits included higher bone density, faster reaction times, greater muscle strength and better balance.· Isabella was now in a position of great strength.· He was a man of not only great strength, but goodness.
· Then after a while she got an inner strength and asked me what Heaven was like.· Chi goes to the inner strength of your personality, your character.· Very strong in his own way, not swaggering or throwing his weight about, but a great inner strength.· She has a talent for playing modern women who must find the inner strength to fight their own battles.· There is a sense in which outer power is an illusion; inner strength can change the world.· The study also found that 95 percent of women credit their family with building up their inner strength.· Kungfu has three essential elements: speed, coordination and inner strength.· Created between 1965 and the present, these works establish a powerful testament to inner strength and perseverance.
· Some governments say that in order to keep the rebellious minorities down within their own countries they must have a large military strength.· Since Desert Storm, military strength has dropped by 800, 000 from 2. 2 million.· First impressions are of tremendous military strength, a dominating position and a unit and compactness of design.· The allegation that there had been a military show of strength was flatly denied by Yakovlev on May 4.· Our goals-peace based on military strength and creative foreign policy, economic growth, tax re-form, and fiscal sanity-would never change.· In 1966 Denis Healey.: Military strength is of little value if it is achieved at the expense of economic health.· One thing which it is difficult to deny is that military strength was vital for Muscovite survival in this massive frontier land.
· However, power is about more than physical strength.· Hercules was the strongest man on earth and he had the supreme self-confidence magnificent physical strength gives.· Age is probably the most important variable in explaining variation in those sports that require physical contact and strength.· The Kings have ability, but not overwhelming physical size or strength.· She gasped at the easy way in which he took advantage of her lack of physical strength to fight him.· Those who work with their brains govern the others; those who work with their physical strength are governed by them.· Clough was small in stature with disproportionate physical strength and powers of endurance.· He was young and powerful and very handsome, and looks and physical strength were high currency.
· As Glynwed International's actions indicate, the relative strength of the pound against the euro is merely their current excuse.· Smith regarded this distribution as depending in the first instance on relative bargaining strength.· The election produced little real change in the relative strength of the other three main parties.· Many pairs and triplets show the relative strength of the noun: Jill fusses.· His relative electoral strength is not an end in itself, but an illustration of his influence outside the mainstream.· But the relative strength of scale economies and political protectionism varies greatly between different communications fields.
· Light, high tensile strength fibres confer stiffness and strength to a polymer resin that binds them into a rigid three-dimensional form.· Nor did its low tensile strength help either.· Each of these hazards can reduce the tensile strength by several percent.· The springs can also become fatigued and lose their tensile strength.· Again, relatively high tensile strength may be accompanied by very poor compression characteristics.· This imparts a rhythm to the neck even when it is straight and gives a sense of alertness and tensile strength.· Its light weight and high tensile strength make it easy to install and wonderfully versatile.· For the tensile strength of monofilament spun by arachnids was the key.
VERB· He grabbed at the barrel and fell with it so that the power of the big man was added to his own strength.· The very fact that they were different added immeasurably to their strength.· A reinforced edge adds strength and is useful for a fruit cage.· Birds Eye allegedly told inspectors the soya was used to add texture and strength to the product and prevent shrinking.· As long as the War Altar is undamaged the Grand Theogonist may add +2 to his strength.· Should the War Altar be damaged the Grand Theogonist adds +1 to his strength.· Cream Silk Hot Oil Therapy is a deep conditioner, developed to add strength and body to fine, flyaway hair.· When each day shall add strength to its limbs, and its love.
· Perhaps the most obvious way to build strength is by training with weights.· So step alone can build some strength in the legs, the study said.· Although it still has a stronger name on the track, the 1992 road range builds on the strength of previous years.· The field then reverses and builds its strength back up in the opposite direction.· Altogether, the navy was built up to a strength of 200 triremes in the course of three years.· The therapeutic pool helped patients build strength and stamina, while the warm saltwater relaxed their muscles.· People aware of their connectedness can build both compassion and strength.· The study also found that 95 percent of women credit their family with building up their inner strength.
· From her he seemed to draw sufficient strength to get through the days until the simple funeral was over.· Somehow, we drew strength from each other, enough to stave off death for a little while longer.· It builds on what it has done well, drawing strength from small triumphs and symptoms of gradual improvement.· And from that terror she drew unexpected strength.· The Independent Labour Party had drawn most of its strength from its connection with the larger Party.· Both princes drew strength from their uncle's quiet confidence.· Only the faithful who pray to her and draw on her strength can do that.
· She'd felt that strength when he'd scooped her easily into his arms.· I felt drained of my strength.· It was then that he felt his true strength as an eagle coming at last.· It gave him a feeling of quiet strength just to have her near him.· Joshua Morris sipped his vermouth and felt his strength returning in waves.· She felt her strength ebbing but remained calm.· She felt she would draw strength from it.· Labor was beginning to feel its strength, and this gaffe kept many away.
· Such is the site of Callanish for the golden eagle and in its circle all may find strength and truth.· She has a talent for playing modern women who must find the inner strength to fight their own battles.· She had better find the strength.· Most of the women and men that Lieberman interviewed found a strength in themselves that they never expected.· So we must find the strength to face it somehow.· But he finds strength in that truth and uses it to his advantage.· Somehow then I found the strength to roll away, dragging my boots away from the clutch of the pile's soggy depths.· Where would she find the psychological strength to survive her circumstances?
· All the while, moreover, a number of purely domestic cross-currents were gaining in strength.· The step-and-resistance exercisers also gained more strength, the researchers said.· It must have seemed to him that Vincent had gained immeasurably in strength and confidence since their last confrontation.· Some bank stocks gained on the strength of J. P. Morgan&.· He would gain strength from being back with his books, his bed and his little bits and pieces.· Sea World veterinarian Jim McBain said the calf is gaining strength and responding to treatment.· The movement whose new star he became in 1934 soon showed the public how greatly it had gained strength.· They melt and seep into other dreams, gaining strength, getting wider and deeper as they flow downhill, gathering debris.
· Leipzig church calls for calm as unity movement gathers strength.· I did not have to gather strength.· Despite the obstacles, Mr Djukanovic's officials claim to be optimistic that their gradual drive for independence is gathering strength.· The fingers touching the back of her neck were stronger now-the strokes bolder as though Baby Suggs were gathering strength.· The wastelands are inhabited by all kinds of monstrous creatures and it is here that the armies of Chaos gather their strength.· In the late 1960s the case for Congressional reform had gathered strength.· The time I spent alone with her ... those hours allowed me to gather strength to go on with my deception.· He spent the interval just sitting in his dressing room, gathering his strength for the next act.
· It kept out the cold and gave strength and comfort beyond its natural powers.· Gerda kissed Kay, giving him back his strength.· The food and rest gave me back my strength and I no longer felt ill.· Teclis was stronger now, the potions of the Loremasters had gone a long way towards giving him mortal strength.· You need a leader to give you strength when the frustrations get out of hand.· We have adopted it because it gives greater strength and dignity and fullness to the design.· The dream gives me the strength to consider the future.
· However, as the object shrinks the C- field grows in strength and ultimately succeeds in causing a bounce.· The law and order lobby has grown in strength during the Conservative ascendancy.· It is in the growing strength of the nationalist community in economic and social terms.· It grows from strength to strength each year and the quality of the programme gets even better.· As her creation grew in strength, so she felt her own on the rise.· Adherence to ethnic identities appears to be growing in strength all over the world.· The sky was still blue; the sun, growing in strength, promised a hot sweltering day.
· This has the effect of greatly increasing the strength of the withdrawal reflex in response to subsequence stimulation of the siphon alone.· Then the wind began to increase in strength, still from the east and blocking any progress.· How then is the continuing, and even increasing, strength of nationalism to be explained?· Panel by panel we reduced sail as the wind increased in strength.· This will help increase muscle strength.· If the object is to increase the effective strength of a trade union, it is lawful.· Furthermore we know more or less what to do to increase its strength.· His hand-written letter was enclosed in an envelope which in turn was enclosed in three others of increasing size and strength.
· It sapped my strength and made sweat trickle into my eyes.· It makes you sick, it saps every bit of strength you got.· The effort began to sap his strength and his muscles quivered as at last he pulled himself over the icy edge.· First, he had to deal with diabetes that sapped his strength.· The first 25 metres are 8a+, serving to sap strength and stamina for the harder moves to come.· Four years ago, Johnson contracted food poisoning prior to the Olympics, the illness sapping his strength and ruining his conditioning.· Insomnia plagued her and sapped her strength.· He also began to believe that clashes between the two most important opposition figures would sap their strength.
· But it was not long before symptoms of the hypochondria which had always been present showed themselves in strength.· The book shows the tenderness and strength of children.· Many pairs and triplets show the relative strength of the noun: Jill fusses.· And Anders, showing off his strength by tearing only at the thick material of Nina's suit.· Technology issues showed some strength after a strong profit report from Cisco Systems, the bellwether of the computer networking sector.· That shows an inner strength which must be the result of his deep religious conviction.
· Barton nudged the nose down and tested the strength of the right-hand roll.· I got a better grip, Lincoln testing my strength, experimenting with the power of the leash.· Are you naturally more cautious, preferring to test the strength of your enemy before striking at his weak points?· The pool water was working wonders on her ankle and after a few more minutes she tested its strength.· When an aircraft has been designed and built a full-sized specimen must be tested for strength and stiffness.· Many happy hours were spent colouring the eggs and inventing games to test the strength of the shells.· You will at least be able to test the strength of the case against you.· Having thus tested the strength of the main anchor, the last person down can remove the back-up before abseiling.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► not know your own strengthPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► gather yourself/your strength/your thoughts► God give me strength!► play to your strengths
- Manuel was hired immediately on the strength of Cassidy's recommendation.
- Although it still has a stronger name on the track, the 1992 road range builds on the strength of previous years.
- Court testimony was seen as a formula to manipulate power and was evaluated on the strength of its effectiveness.
- He had no doubt that the case could be wound up on the strength of it.
- It is rare for an Indie band to take off big on the strength of a first record.
- She built her future business on the strength of that first success.
- Some bank stocks gained on the strength of J. P. Morgan.
- The quantity depends on the strength of the essence.
- Both his coups began with a ruthless pre-emptive strike from a position of strength.
- Britain's experience with chemical weapons shows what can happen if we fail to negotiate from a position of strength.
- From that position of strength, he supervised the return of representative institutions.
- Johnson had steered himself into a position of strength from which to conduct his campaign in the election of 1964.
- Not surprisingly princes were concerned to build up a position of strength during their fathers' lifetimes.
- You're in a position of strength as a potential client who is checking out the service on offer.
- As these events were unfolding we were finding that our Partnership's lifestyle magazines were going from strength to strength.
- But now they have gone, the story line has gone from strength to strength.
- On its own terms, meanwhile, the new philology went from strength to strength.
- Ride are just going from strength to strength - one of the bands that are really cutting through at the moment.
- The railcoaches however, went from strength to strength and became the work-horses of the Blackpool system.
- We can't help but go from strength to strength.
- While the company goes from strength to strength, the union claims, its employees are losing out.
- I felt the blood running down my face, and the pain gave me strength.
- Some one give me strength, I pray.
- To find such understanding in a book gave me strength.
- When things looked dark, when the way was long, you gave me strength to continue.
- You say that I have the endurance - you say it in order to give me strength.
- And let's not limit the language to pictures of thunder and brute strength.
- But like men, chimps do not rise entirely on brute strength.
- Even his strong-man routine seems devoid of any intelligence or style and focuses, instead, upon brute force and muscle.
- Henry Cooper used brute strength to promote after-shave.
- Teravainen belonged to the brute force school; off the tee, he was as long as anybody.
- Their only ultimate recourse is to deal with each other by brute force.
- Wado employs very light and fast techniques, preferring evasion to meeting brute force head on.
- Was brute force and intimidation all they knew?
- Crusty Bill boasts he's on a spicy vegetarian diet to keep his strength up for love.
- During the war years, it helped keep our spirits up and we need it again now.
- He had a strong sense of humour, and kept his spirits up.
- I had to keep my strength up.
- I told Tansy that she must keep her spirits up, that Rose might be needing her.
- She ate a little to keep her strength up.
- It had taken every ounce of courage she possessed to board the aircraft after her last experience.
- Finally, to my daughter who was a pillar of strength.
- My mother has been a tower of strength.
- John seems a tower of strength and reason.
- She was a tower of strength, giving me lessons on a weekly basis.
- Tactful, encouraging, a tower of strength to lean on.
- You're always a tower of strength.
WORD FAMILYnounstrengthadjectivestrongverbstrengthenadverbstrongly
1physical [uncountable] the physical power and energy that makes someone strong OPP weaknesshave/find the strength to do something She didn’t even have the strength to stand up. I’m trying to build up my strength. Jo hit him with all her strength. He never ceased to be amazed by her physical strength.2determination [uncountable] the quality of being brave or determined in dealing with difficult or unpleasant situationshave/find the strength to do something Jenny didn’t have the strength to end the relationship. She had enormous strength of character (=strong ability to deal with difficult situations).strength of mind/purpose The sea was very cold and it required great strength of mind to get in. I think you have to find an inner strength in order to feel good about yourself. → tower of strength at tower1(3)3feeling/belief [uncountable] how strong a feeling, belief, or relationship is SYN depthstrength of Governments cannot ignore the strength of public opinion. We understand the strength of feeling against the proposal.4organization/country etc [uncountable] the political, military, or economic power of an organization, country, or systemstrength of the strength of the US economy The socialists organized a show of strength (=when a country or organization shows how strong it is).5useful quality or ability [countable] a particular quality or ability that gives someone or something an advantage OPP weakness: Her main strength is her critical thinking ability.strength of The great strength of our plan lies in its simplicity. Be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses.6object [uncountable] how strong an object or structure is, especially its ability to last for a long time without breaking OPP weaknessstrength of a device for testing the strength of concrete structures7substance/mixture [countable, uncountable] how strong a substance or mixture is: Add water to dilute the solution to the required strength.full-strength/half-strength/double-strength etc Young plants can be fed with half-strength liquid fertilizer.8number of people [uncountable] the number of people in a team, army etc: The Edinburgh team are now at full strength.below strength The police force is below strength at the moment (=there are fewer police than there should be).in strength Security forces were out in strength (=in large numbers) but did not intervene.9money [uncountable] the value of a country’s money when compared to other countries’ moneystrength of the strength of the dollar on the international money markets10on the strength of something because of something: I bought the book on the strength of your recommendation.11position of strength a position where you have an advantage over someone, especially in a discussion: We must negotiate from a position of strength.12go from strength to strength to become more and more successful: For several years, the business went from strength to strength.13natural force [uncountable] how strong a natural force is: the strength of the sunlight14colour/light/flavour/smell etc [uncountable] how strong a colour, taste etc is15give me strength! spoken used when you are annoyed or angry about something16not know your own strength to not realize how strong you areCOLLOCATIONS– Meaning 1adjectivesphysical strength· Some of the tasks required considerable physical strength.great/enormous strength· Hercules was famous for his great strength.superhuman strength (=much greater than ordinary strength)· In the movie, Walsh performs feats of superhuman strength.superior strength (=greater than someone else's)· Using his superior strength, Rocky dragged the struggling Larsen another twenty yards back.brute strength (=physical strength rather than intelligence or careful thinking)· There is more to wrestling than brute strength. Tactics are important too.full strength· It takes time to get your full strength back after you have been ill.verbshave the strength to do something· He didn't even have the strength to sit up.find the strength to do something· Mary found the strength to climb up onto the upturned boat.use your strength· He used all his strength to heave the door shut.gather/muster/summon your strength (=get enough strength to do something)· He sat for a couple of minutes, gathering his strength.build up your strength (=make yourself stronger)· You need to build up your strength.gain strength· After the operation, he spent several weeks relaxing and gaining strength.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 2adjectivesgreat strength· She showed great strength in dealing with her problems.inner strength· Geoff had an inner strength which got him through the tough times.mental strength· He's a player who has the skill and the mental strength to win.verbshave the strength to do something· This proved that he has the strength to cope with such a high-powered job.find the strength to do something· Paula had found the strength to escape from an abusive marriage.gain/draw strength from somebody/something· He gained strength from being back with the people and things he loved.show strength· The decision to continue shows incredible strength and courage.phrasesstrength of character (=strong ability to deal with difficult situations)· The victims' families have shown amazing strength of character.strength of purpose/mind (=determination to do something)· In pursuing this ambition, William showed remarkable strength of purpose.a source of strength (=person or thing that makes you brave or determined)· Her faith had always been a source of strength for her.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 5adjectivesa great strength· Diversity is one of India's greatest strengths.a real strength· The play's real strength is the way it explores relationships.verbsbuild on/capitalize on a strength (=use it as a basis for further achievement)· The organization must move forward and capitalize on its strengths.play to your strengths (=use people's qualities and abilities in the best way in order to achieve something)· Both parties are playing to their strengths.identify strengths· The teacher can identify each child's strengths and build on these.know somebody's strengths· It's important to know your strengths as well as your weaknesses.somebody's/something's strength lies in something· The show's strength lies in the fact that it appeals to all ages.phrasesstrengths and weaknesses· All technologies have different strengths and weaknesses.