to solidify / strengthen
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to solidify
To become fixed, established, or stabilized in a figurative sense. Often refers to opinions, structures, impressions, or prejudices.
Leider hat sich das Vorurteil in der Bevölkerung verfestigt.
Unfortunately, the prejudice has solidified among the population.
The verb is formed from the adjective 'fest' (firm/solid). The prefix 'ver-' and the ending '-igen' turn it into a process: to make something firm or to become firm.
Durch wiederholte Bestätigung kann sich ein Eindruck verfestigen.
Through repeated confirmation, an impression can solidify.
The verb has two main uses: 'sich verfestigen' (something becomes firmer by itself, often abstractly) and 'etwas verfestigen' (someone makes something firmer, physically or abstractly).
Der Verdacht gegen ihn hat sich leider verfestigt.
The suspicion against him has unfortunately solidified.
The reflexive form 'sich verfestigen' (to solidify) is very often used for abstract concepts. Typical subjects are: a prejudice, an opinion, an impression, a structure, or a suspicion.
Es ist schwer, ein einmal verfestigtes Vorurteil wieder loszuwerden.
It is hard to get rid of a prejudice once it has solidified.
The physical meaning of 'verfestigen' (to solidify/make something materially harder) is often found in technical or scientific texts, for example in geology or materials science.
Der flüssige Kunststoff wird unter UV-Licht verfestigt.
The liquid plastic is solidified under UV light.
to strengthen
'stärken' and 'verfestigen' can both express that something becomes more stable or secure. 'stärken' emphasizes more strength, support, or resilience. It fits with people, relationships, health, trust, or positions. 'verfestigen' emphasizes more that something becomes fixed, lasting, or hard to change. This can be positive, for example with a structure, but also negative, for example with a prejudice. When something gains more strength, people often say 'stärken'. When something becomes firmly established or remains stable, 'verfestigen' is a better fit.
Nach mehreren ähnlichen Erfahrungen verfestigte sich ihr Eindruck.
After several similar experiences, her impression became firmly established.
Das gemeinsame Projekt stärkt die Zusammenarbeit im Büro.
The joint project strengthens collaboration in the office.