strengthen up
B2 informal separable both
In simple words
To get stronger or to make something stronger.
Literal meaning: To strengthen to a higher level — 'up' intensifies the base verb.
Meanings
1 B2 informal
To develop greater physical strength, especially through exercise and training.
"You need to strengthen up your core muscles to prevent back injuries."
Grammar: separable
2 B2 neutral
To make a structure, system, or organization more robust and resilient.
"The government needs to strengthen up its border security procedures."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Less common than 'strengthen' alone. The 'up' adds a sense of improvement to full capacity. More common in fitness and coaching contexts. Slightly informal.
Commonly used with
muscles core defenses position structure team
Forms
Base
strengthen up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
strengthens up
he/she/it
Past simple
strengthened up
yesterday
Past participle
strengthened up
have + pp
-ing form
strengthening up
continuous
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Synonyms
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