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

Fatima’s smile, her strength, her resilience—and the sense that films can still create spaces where people feel, speak, and connect. —Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 7 Nov. 2025

Unlike many older filters that break down under sunlight, BEMT remains highly stable even after significant UV exposure, meaning the formula retains its strength longer. —Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 7 Nov. 2025

Because this resource is markedly less in demand in the United States these days, men are understandably struggling to find new ways to put their strength in the service of others. —Anna Louie Sussman, The Atlantic, 7 Nov. 2025

Torrey Pines’ strength is its serve receive. —Tim Meehan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Nov. 2025