What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reinforce
Example
We need to reinforce the walls before the storm hits. [reinforce: verb]
Example
The teacher used positive feedback to reinforce good behavior in the classroom. [reinforce: verb]
underpin
Example
The research underpins the importance of early childhood education. [underpins: verb]
Example
The company's success is underpinned by its commitment to quality and innovation. [underpinned: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reinforce is more commonly used than underpin in everyday language. Reinforce is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while underpin is less common and refers to a more specific type of support or foundation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reinforce and underpin?
Underpin is typically associated with a more formal tone, often used in academic or professional contexts. Reinforce can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
