reinforce

Everyday

1. To make something stronger, especially by adding material or support. tree →
2. To make an idea, feeling or habit stronger. tree →
3. To send more soldiers, police or helpers to make a group stronger. tree →
4. (learning) To repeat or reward something so that it is learnt better. tree →

In the lessons

In science and design technology, concrete is reinforced with steel rods, and paper bridges with folded strips. In school, practice reinforces learning and praise reinforces good behaviour. In history and stories armies are reinforced. Phrases: «reinforced concrete», «reinforce the message», «reinforce a lesson», «reinforce good behaviour».

Examples

• The builders reinforced the wall with steel bars. tree →
• Doing practice questions reinforces what you learnt. tree →
• Fold the card to reinforce the bridge. tree →
• Praise reinforces kind behaviour. tree →
• More firefighters arrived to reinforce the team. tree →
• The photo reinforced the idea that the castle was haunted. tree →
• Reinforced glass is hard to break. tree →

Note

Regular verb: reinforced. Noun: «reinforcement» and «reinforcements» (extra soldiers). Pronounced «ree-in-FORCE». In science, a reinforced structure can hold a bigger load before it breaks.