fortalecer
“fortalecer” means “to strengthen” in Spanish (to make someone or something physically or mentally stronger).
to strengthen
Also: to bolster, to tone
📝 In Action
Hago ejercicio todos los días para fortalecer mis músculos.
A1I exercise every day to strengthen my muscles.
Queremos fortalecer la amistad entre nuestros países.
A2We want to strengthen the friendship between our countries.
La nueva ley busca fortalecer la economía local.
B1The new law seeks to bolster the local economy.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: fortalecer
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct 'yo' form in the present tense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Spanish word 'fortaleza' (strength), which comes from the Latin 'fortis' meaning 'strong'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'fortalecer' the same as 'reforzar'?
They are very close! 'Fortalecer' usually means making something inherently stronger from the inside, while 'reforzar' (to reinforce) often implies adding something extra to give it support.
How do I say 'strengthening' as a noun?
Use 'el fortalecimiento'. For example: 'El fortalecimiento de los músculos es importante'.
Can I use 'fortalecer' for people?
Yes! You can use it to describe making someone stronger emotionally or physically, just remember to use the personal 'a' (e.g., 'Esto va a fortalecer a Juan').