Which English verb best translates the concept of making something stronger (consolider, renforcer)?

• A. To fortify
• B. To strengthen
• C. To reinforce
• D. To empower

Answer: (B)

The main idea is choosing a verb that directly expresses making something stronger in a general sense. Strengthen is the best choice because it is the straightforward, broad term that covers increasing strength across contexts—physical, structural, or abstract. You can strengthen muscles, strengthen a plan, or strengthen a relationship, and it doesn’t imply a specific method or a defensive purpose.

The other options have narrower nuances. Fortify is usually about defenses or preparing against threats, like fortifying a castle or a diet fortified with vitamins. Reinforce suggests adding extra support to an existing structure or system, rather than increasing its overall strength in a general sense. Empower focuses on giving someone power or ability, which isn’t the same as making something stronger in its own right.