What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harden
Example
The concrete will harden overnight and be ready for use in the morning. [harden: verb]
Example
After experiencing so much loss, she had to harden her heart to protect herself. [harden: verb]
Example
The coach wanted to harden the team's approach to training to improve their performance. [harden: verb]
strengthen
Example
The new steel reinforcements will strengthen the bridge and make it safer. [strengthen: verb]
Example
Regular exercise can strengthen your muscles and improve your overall health. [strengthen: verb]
Example
Spending quality time together can strengthen the bond between two people. [strengthen: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Strengthen is more commonly used than harden in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harden and strengthen?
Both harden and strengthen can be used in formal and informal contexts, but harden may be perceived as more formal due to its less common usage.
