Reinforces

To reinforce something means to strengthen or support it, making it more effective or durable. This can apply to physical structures, abstract concepts, or even behaviors. Reinforcement often involves adding material, providing additional support, or restating and solidifying an idea. It implies making something more robust against potential challenges or breakdowns. The purpose of reinforcement is to make something more resilient, secure, or likely to succeed. It can also describe actions that are consistent with a prior established direction. The act of reinforcing can be a deliberate action or a consequence of an action.

Reinforces meaning with examples

• The construction crew reinforces the bridge's supports with steel beams to withstand increased traffic and potential weather events. Their actions ensure the bridge's long-term structural integrity. The stronger supports also make the bridge far less likely to buckle, or fail, thus safeguarding life and commerce.
• The teacher reinforces good behavior with positive feedback and rewards, encouraging students to continue behaving in a desirable manner. This helps to establish an appropriate classroom atmosphere and encourages the students to become good members of the group and society.
• The company reinforces its commitment to environmental sustainability by investing in renewable energy sources and implementing eco-friendly practices across its operations. This is intended to send a signal to customers and employees.
• The lawyer reinforces their client's argument with compelling evidence and witness testimony to strengthen their case in court. The lawyer would then repeat the arguments for emphasis to create a greater impact on the jury and judge.
• Consistent practice reinforces learned skills, allowing athletes to maintain peak performance and minimize errors during competitive events. This leads to greater confidence in their capabilities, and greater predictability.
• A parent may give a child a small reward to **reinforce** the action of putting the child's toys in the toy box. The small reward will act as a positive reinforcement in the mind of the child so the child is more likely to repeat this activity.