Meaning and Usage
The verb 強める (つよめる) means "to strengthen" or "to intensify." It is a transitive verb, so it requires a direct object — something that is being made stronger or more intense.
Common Contexts
You will often see 強める used when talking about strengthening opinions, feelings, or physical conditions like cold or wind. It can also describe making a tone or attitude stronger, such as in speech or behavior.
Collocations and Patterns
- 意見を強める: to strengthen an opinion, often by providing evidence or arguments.
- 力を強める: to increase strength or power.
- 口調を強める: to use a stronger tone, often to emphasize a point.
- 寒さが強まる: the cold intensifies (note this is intransitive form but related).
Register and Nuance
強める is neutral and common in both spoken and written Japanese. It is appropriate in formal and informal contexts. When used in speech, it can convey a deliberate effort to make something more forceful or clear.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 強める with 強い (strong) or 強まる (to become stronger, intransitive). Remember, 強める is transitive and requires an object that is being strengthened.