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strong evidence
substantial evidence
clear evidence
extensive evidence
compelling evidence
convincing evidence
strong feelings
intense feelings
passionate feelings
powerful feelings
heightened feelings
profound feelings
strong opposition
significant opposition
robust opposition
firm opposition
staunch opposition
considerable opposition
a strong relationship
a positive relationship
a sturdy relationship
a solid relationship
a close relationship
a tight relationship
strong winds
ferocious winds
damaging winds
high winds
heavy winds
rough winds

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 Today, though inflation’s back in our future, the big selloff launched a new era of strong real returns. Shawn Tully, Fortune, 12 Jan. 2023 Hiring remained strong last month as employers added 233,000 jobs and wages grew a robust 4.6% compared to a year earlier. Max Zahn, ABC News, 12 Jan. 2023 Carry it by hand or use the shoulder strap that attaches with strong metal buckles (not pictured). Jessica Hartshorn, Good Housekeeping, 12 Jan. 2023 Deadwyler’s performance has had a strong effect on audiences. Caryn James, Town & Country, 12 Jan. 2023 See All Example Sentences for strong
Recent Examples of Synonyms for strong
Adjective
  • Lenovo's muscular portable is built tough as nails and boasts some impressive components.
    K. Thor Jensen, PCMAG, 25 Feb. 2025
  • In that period, Palmer’s production has declined (three goals, zero assists), and primary striker Nicolas Jackson sustained a muscular injury that will keep him out of action until April.
    Elias Burke, The Athletic, 24 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The additional accessories include two cloth liners, a sturdy lame with a wooden handle, four spare lame blades and a blade cover.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2025
  • Among albums, Four Symbols is the sturdiest winner.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • News how Shepard reacted to watching her steamy scenes with Brody, 44, in the spicy series.
    Esther Kang, People.com, 21 Feb. 2025
  • The Belgian blonde Buddy System is a spicy 6.4%, and the German-style helles checks in at 5.8%.
    Jason Mastrodonato, The Mercury News, 21 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Their roster is rich with talented young players, including a terrific goaltender in Lukas Dostal, and there are signs that Anaheim is starting to figure it out.
    Carol Schram, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2025
  • The fruit is rich in vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, as well as antioxidants, and potassium.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 1 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The fruit flavors are ripe and juicy, featuring strawberry, raspberry, and sometimes blackberry.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025
  • Especially once Hasbro took over the game from Parker Brothers, Clue became a brand ripe for licensable extension.
    Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Charlotte Moore’s decision to quit the BBC has opened up the most powerful creative job in British television — and within minutes speculation was rampant about who could succeed the outgoing content chief.
    Max Goldbart, Deadline, 27 Feb. 2025
  • The film’s effect on the perception of Brazil’s powerful military has been something of a virtuous circle: the political mood powers the popularity of the movie, and the movie in turn powers the political mood.
    Steven Zeitchik, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
    Becca Longmire, People.com, 19 Feb. 2025
  • And that now is, by far, the most compelling part of the film.
    Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 19 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • She is also seen as a solid candidate to land the job permanently.
    Max Goldbart, Deadline, 28 Feb. 2025
  • On that morning of January 27, the team was a solid 26-19-3 for 55 points, or a .541 points percentage.
    Tom Layberger, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Strong.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/strong. Accessed 5 Mar. 2025.

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