“Stronger” is the comparative form of the adjective “strong,” which generally means having great physical power, mental power, or the ability to withstand force or pressure. Here are some synonyms and their analyses:
1. More powerful
- Meaning: Having greater strength, force, or influence. For example, “The more powerful engine can accelerate the car much faster.”
- Usage difference: “More powerful” emphasizes the possession of greater force or energy. It can be used in a wide range of contexts, including physical strength (like in the example of engines), as well as in the context of influence, such as a more powerful leader who can have a greater impact on decision - making. In comparison to “stronger,” it might be more abstract and can refer to intangible sources of strength like political or social power.
2. Tougher
- Meaning: Having greater physical or mental resilience; more difficult to break, damage, or overcome. For example, “The tougher material can withstand more pressure.”
- Usage difference: “Tougher” focuses on the aspect of resistance and durability. It implies a greater ability to endure hardship or stress without breaking. In contrast to “stronger,” which can refer to a wide range of strengths including brute force, “tougher” is more about the ability to persevere through difficult conditions. For example, a tougher athlete might not be the strongest in terms of pure muscle power, but they can endure more intense training or a more challenging competition.
3. More robust
- Meaning: Strong and healthy; vigorous; also, able to withstand or overcome adverse conditions. For example, “The more robust plants survived the harsh winter.”
- Usage difference: “More robust” emphasizes a combination of strength and healthiness. It often implies a state of well - being that enables something to function effectively and resist problems. In comparison to “stronger,” it has a connotation of a more complete or comprehensive strength that includes not just physical might but also a kind of vitality. For example, a more robust immune system is stronger in the sense that it can better fight off diseases and keep the body healthy.
4. Sturdier
- Meaning: Solidly built; strongly made; more capable of withstanding rough use or wear. For example, “The sturdier furniture can last for decades.”
- Usage difference: “Sturdier” emphasizes the quality of construction and the ability to last through heavy use. It is often used to describe objects that are well - made and can endure over time. In contrast to “stronger,” which can have a more general meaning related to strength, “sturdier” is more about the physical durability and solidity of a thing. For example, a sturdier bridge can handle more traffic and harsher weather conditions because of its stronger - built structure.