The Opposite(Antonym) of “reinforce”
The antonyms of reinforce are weaken and undermine. The antonym weaken means to make something less strong or effective, while undermine means to weaken or damage something gradually and secretly.
Explore all Antonyms of “reinforce”
- weaken
- undermine
Definitions and Examples of weaken, undermine
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To make something less strong or effective.
Example
The storm weakened the foundation of the house, causing it to collapse.
undermine
To weaken or damage something gradually and secretly.
Example
The constant criticism from her boss undermined her confidence and made her doubt her abilities.
Key Differences: weaken vs undermine
- 1Weaken implies a reduction in strength or effectiveness, while undermine suggests a gradual and secretive weakening or damaging of something.
- 2Weaken can be used in both physical and non-physical contexts, while undermine is typically used in non-physical contexts.
Effective Usage of weaken, undermine
- 1Enhance Writing: Use weaken and undermine to add variety to your vocabulary and convey different shades of meaning.
- 2Discuss Politics: These antonyms are often used in political discussions to describe the effects of policies or actions on institutions or systems.
- 3Analyze Relationships: Use these antonyms to describe the dynamics of relationships and how they can be affected by external factors.
Remember this!
The antonyms of reinforce are weaken and undermine. Weaken implies a reduction in strength or effectiveness, while undermine suggests a gradual and secretive weakening or damaging of something. Use these words to enhance your writing, discuss politics, and analyze relationships.