Definition of strongnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word strong different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of strong are stalwart, stout, sturdy, tenacious, and tough. While all these words mean "showing power to resist or to endure," strong may imply power derived from muscular vigor, large size, structural soundness, intellectual or spiritual resources.

strong arms
the defense has a strong case

When might stalwart be a better fit than strong?

The meanings of stalwart and strong largely overlap; however, stalwart suggests an unshakable dependability.

stalwart environmentalists

When would stout be a good substitute for strong?

The words stout and strong can be used in similar contexts, but stout suggests an ability to endure stress, pain, or hard use without giving way.

stout hiking boots

When is it sensible to use sturdy instead of strong?

The words sturdy and strong are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sturdy implies strength derived from vigorous growth, determination of spirit, solidity of construction.

a sturdy table
people of sturdy independence

Where would tenacious be a reasonable alternative to strong?

In some situations, the words tenacious and strong are roughly equivalent. However, tenacious suggests strength in seizing, retaining, clinging to, or holding together.

tenacious farmers clinging to an age-old way of life

In what contexts can tough take the place of strong?

Although the words tough and strong have much in common, tough implies great firmness and resiliency.

a tough political opponent

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of strong Ratings have been strong since its launch at the backend of 2025, Streamz has reported, even if the show is considered an unexpected hit. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 17 Mar. 2026 And while competition is strong, there is also a more human side of coaching that involves leading athletes to be strong men on and off the court. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Mar. 2026 Opposition to closing branches The survey also found strong opposition to a proposal to close four branch libraries to expand services elsewhere, with 72% of respondents opposed. Dallas Morning News, 17 Mar. 2026 Key moment Alexander-Walker carried over his strong play from the Hawks’ last outing on Saturday to Monday night. Lauren Williams, AJC.com, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for strong
Recent Examples of Synonyms for strong
Adjective
  • The same level of care extends to the spa, where my therapist, Francesca, tailored my treatment with remarkable intuition, addressing both muscular tension and skin concerns with expertise.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Mar. 2026
  • This four-seat (technically) convertible wraps its occupants in tailored luxury and backs up its sleek appearance with muscular performance.
    Jason Fogelson, AJC.com, 20 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • But that 34-day war only further enhanced Hezbollah’s position in Lebanon as a powerful armed militia, operating outside of government reach while at the same time — particularly since 2008 – actually being part of the government and having effective control over it.
    Asher Kaufman, The Conversation, 20 Mar. 2026
  • And what works for this writer are powerful hits of nostalgia, preferably from childhood, preferably in relation to football, preferably, and more specifically, to the aesthetics of football.
    Nick Miller, New York Times, 20 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Donica, across from her, is on sturdier ground, fearsome to the point of awe-inspiring in the sustained fury of his fermatas, though his considerable force as a performer longs to be shaped more cleanly.
    Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 19 Mar. 2026
  • Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 18 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The genre-swerving approach mirrored the spirit of Cheetos® Flamin’ Hot® Dill Pickle — an unexpected pairing that delivers something spicy.
    Walaa Elsiddig, Billboard, 17 Mar. 2026
  • The trio are avid romance and spicy readers but also have a love for fantasy and science fiction.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 16 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Interestingly, the internal recycling process allows the planet to maintain a thick, hydrogen-rich atmosphere that would otherwise be stripped away by the intense X-ray radiation from its host star.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Mar. 2026
  • That same anti-rich mania is driving Illinois Democrats to push for a 3% surcharge levied against $1 million earners.
    Betsy McCaughey, Boston Herald, 16 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • When the harvest is ripe, residents of the Peacock Tract Community in Montgomery, Alabama, gather to enjoy nature’s bounty — free of charge.
    Adam Stone, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
  • The city is also ripe for residents wanting to live somewhere that embraces progressive urban design and planning.
    Amelia Mularz, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Lime and simple syrup echoed the satisfying push and pull of a proper Gimlet, and a splash of homemade ginger beer gave a spice that lingers on the palate, a compelling closing argument for cocktails with fresh ingredients.
    Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 21 Mar. 2026
  • What makes Matera particularly compelling for active explorers is the way the city itself demands physical engagement.
    Lauren Schuster, Charlotte Observer, 21 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The neighborhood/area The hotel isn’t beachfront, like many in the area are, but rather a solid hike or short drive to the Pacific.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Johnson contributed solid minutes as the fill-in back-up center, totaling 15 points on 6-of-12 shooting from the field and 3-of-9 shooting on threes, five rebounds, one assist, three steals and one block in 20 minutes off the bench.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 18 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Strong.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/strong. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

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