Synonyms of strength

strength

noun

ˈstreŋ(k)th 

1

as in power

the ability to exert effort for the accomplishment of a task

the murdered man's wife didn't have the emotional strength to face reporters

Synonyms & Similar Words

• power
• energy
• muscle
• capacity
• vigor
• capability
• potency
• force
• firepower
• horsepower
• competence
• competency
• potence
• might
• sinew
• puissance
• aptitude
• effectiveness
• usefulness
• adequacy
• effectualness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• weakness
• impotence
• powerlessness
• disability
• inability
• impotency
• incapacity
• incompetence
• incompetency
• incapability
• inaptitude
• ineffectiveness
• uselessness
• inefficacy
• paralysis
• ineffectuality
• helplessness
• incapableness
• ineffectualness
• inefficaciousness

2

as in stability

the ability to withstand force or stress without being distorted, dislodged, or damaged

this cheap shelving unit doesn't have the strength to hold all those books

Synonyms & Similar Words

• stability
• sturdiness
• reliability
• soundness
• firmness
• durability
• dependability
• solidity
• toughness
• cohesion
• solidness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• instability
• insecurity
• precariousness
• unsteadiness
• shakiness
• weakness
• unsoundness
• unstableness
• insubstantiality
• unsubstantiality

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun strength contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of strength are energy, force, might, and power. While all these words mean "the ability to exert effort," strength applies to the quality or property of a person or thing that makes possible the exertion of force or the withstanding of strain, pressure, or attack.

use weight training to build your strength

When might energy be a better fit than strength?

While in some cases nearly identical to strength, energy applies to power expended or capable of being transformed into work.

a worker with boundless energy

When can force be used instead of strength?

Although the words force and strength have much in common, force implies the actual effective exercise of power.

used enough force to push the door open

When is it sensible to use might instead of strength?

The words might and strength can be used in similar contexts, but might implies great or overwhelming power or strength.

the belief that might makes right

When could power be used to replace strength?

In some situations, the words power and strength are roughly equivalent. However, power may imply latent or exerted physical, mental, or spiritual ability to act or be acted upon.

the awesome power of flowing water

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of strength

What emerges is a portrait of an artist transforming vulnerability into creative strength through honesty. —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 22 Jan. 2026

Consistency and play strength will be focal points in his development at the next level. —Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Jan. 2026

The more protein in the flour, the more gluten develops, which leads to more strength, volume, and elasticity in the final baked product. —Zoe Denenberg, Southern Living, 11 Jan. 2026

But their safeties are not the strength of the defense. —Matt Barrows, New York Times, 10 Jan. 2026