Meaning and Usage
The verb 強まる (つよまる) means "to become stronger" or "to gain strength." It is an intransitive verb, so it describes something increasing in strength or intensity by itself, without a direct object.
Common Contexts
You will often see 強まる used with natural phenomena like wind or storms (風が強まる), or abstract concepts such as feelings, willpower, or confidence (意志が強まる, 信頼感が強まる).
Collocations and Patterns
- 風が強まる: the wind gets stronger, often used in weather reports.
- 意志が強まる: willpower or determination becomes stronger.
- 信頼感が強まる: trust or confidence increases.
Register and Nuance
This verb is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It often appears in news, reports, and everyday conversation.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 強まる (intransitive) with 強める (つよめる), which is the transitive form meaning "to strengthen (something)." Remember, 強まる describes something becoming stronger on its own, while 強める means actively making something stronger.