refuerzos
“refuerzos” means “reinforcements” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
reinforcements
Also: backup
📝 In Action
El general solicitó refuerzos inmediatamente después del ataque.
B1The general requested reinforcements immediately after the attack.
La policía envió refuerzos para controlar la manifestación.
B1The police sent backup (or reinforcements) to control the demonstration.
Llamaron a los bomberos pidiendo más refuerzos de agua.
B2They called the firefighters asking for more water support.
structural supports
Also: bracing, reinforcements
📝 In Action
Necesitamos añadir refuerzos de fibra de carbono a la viga.
B2We need to add carbon fiber strengthening components to the beam.
Los refuerzos de acero evitaron que el puente colapsara.
C1The steel supports prevented the bridge from collapsing.
recruits
Also: new signings, additions
📝 In Action
El entrenador está buscando refuerzos para la próxima temporada.
B2The coach is looking for new recruits (or additions) for next season.
Los nuevos refuerzos del equipo de fútbol son muy jóvenes.
B2The soccer team's new signings are very young.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "refuerzos" in Spanish:
additions→backup→bracing→new signings→recruits→reinforcements→structural supports→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: refuerzos
Question 1 of 2
¿Cuál es el mejor significado de 'refuerzos' en la frase: 'El equipo de baloncesto necesita refuerzos altos'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the verb *reforzar*, which is built using the Latin prefix *re-* (meaning 'again' or 'back') combined with the Latin word *fortis* (meaning 'strong'). So, 'refuerzos' literally means 'things that make something strong again or stronger.'
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'refuerzos' always plural?
The singular form, 'refuerzo,' exists and means 'a single reinforcement' or 'a boost.' However, when talking about extra aid (police, military, or sports team members), the plural 'refuerzos' is the standard way to express the collective group.
How is 'refuerzos' different from 'ayuda'?
'Ayuda' means general help or assistance. 'Refuerzos' specifically means *additional* resources—people or materials—sent to increase strength or capability that is already present.