harshening

present participle of harshen
as in strengthening
to make more harsh, uncompromising, or severe recent changes to the drunk driving laws harshen penalties for repeat offenders

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for harshening
Verb
  • Efforts should also prioritize public education, reducing stigma, and strengthening support for families and schools caring for individuals with autism.
    Adaira Landry, Forbes.com, 6 Sep. 2025
  • The National Hurricane Center has reduced the system’s development odds to just a 20% chance of strengthening over the next two days and a 20% chance within the next seven days.
    Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • But most recently it has been hit from several sides, most notably stiffening competition primarily from Amazon, off-pricers and membership clubs as well as Walmart and Target.
    David Moin, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Competition has also been stiffening, the analyst added, which could be an additional tailwind for growth.
    Brian Evans, CNBC, 29 Aug. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Harshening.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshening. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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