What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
toughened
Example
The glass was toughened to make it shatterproof. [toughened: verb]
Example
The experience toughened her and made her more resilient. [toughened: past participle]
strengthened
Example
The bridge was strengthened to withstand earthquakes. [strengthened: verb]
Example
The therapy sessions strengthened his mental health. [strengthened: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Strengthened is more commonly used than toughened in everyday language, especially in emotional or abstract contexts. Toughened is less common and tends to be used more in technical or specialized fields such as engineering or materials science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between toughened and strengthened?
Both toughened and strengthened can be used in formal or informal contexts, but toughened may be perceived as more technical or specialized due to its association with physical materials and structures.
