to grow stronger
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to grow stronger
To gain power, strength, influence, or importance. Often used for abstract things such as movements, currencies, or feelings.
Nach der Wahl hofft die Opposition, im Parlament wieder zu erstarken.
After the election, the opposition hopes to grow stronger again in parliament.
"Erstarken" is an inseparable verb formed from the prefix "er-" and the adjective "stark" (strong). Here, the prefix "er-" expresses the beginning of a process: becoming strong.
Nach der Krise begann die Wirtschaft langsam wieder zu erstarken.
After the crisis, the economy slowly began to grow stronger again.
The verb is usually used for abstract subjects that gain influence or importance. Typical subjects are "die Wirtschaft" (the economy), "eine Währung" (a currency), "eine politische Partei" (a political party), or "eine Bewegung" (a movement).
In den Umfragen konnte die neue Partei deutlich erstarken.
In the polls, the new party was able to grow significantly stronger.
"Erstarken" belongs to a formal, written register. It is often found in news reports, political analyses, or economic reports, but rarely in everyday colloquial speech.
Der Widerstand gegen das Bauprojekt ist in den letzten Wochen erstarkt.
Resistance to the construction project has grown stronger in recent weeks.
to strengthen / reinforce / amplify
When referring to feelings or developments, sich verstärken and erstarken can both express an increase. Sich verstärken usually emphasizes growing intensity, while erstarken focuses more on gaining strength, influence, or effectiveness. Choose sich verstärken for a stronger feeling and erstarken for a movement or development that is becoming increasingly powerful.
Nach dem Streit erstarkte die Bürgerbewegung und gewann viele neue Unterstützer.
After the argument, the citizens' movement grew stronger and gained many new supporters.
Nach dem Streit verstärkte sich ihre Angst vor weiteren Gesprächen.
After the argument, her fear of having more conversations intensified.
