stärka

Stärka is a Swedish verb meaning to make something stronger or more robust, to reinforce, or to intensify. It is used in both physical contexts, such as strengthening muscles, and in abstract contexts, such as strengthening the economy, trust, or international ties. The verb is transitive and typically takes a direct object, for example styrka i kroppen (to strengthen the body) or stärka banden mellan länder (to strengthen the bonds between countries).

Etymology and cognates: The verb derives from Old Norse styrkja and is related to the noun styrka (strength). It has cognates in other Germanic languages, including Norwegian and Icelandic forms meaning to strengthen, as well as English strengthen.

Conjugation and usage: The verb forms a standard Swedish conjugation. Infinitive: stärka; present: stärker; past: stärkte; supine/past participle: stärkt. The perfect tense is formed with har stärkt. Examples: Jag stärker immunförsvaret genom regelbunden vaccination. Regeringen stärkte ekonomin med nya åtgärder, och stärkt förtroende följde. In many contexts, particularly in health and fitness, stärker is common in everyday speech.

Related terms: Förstärka is a closely related verb meaning to reinforce or further strengthen, often implying a more substantial action. Nouns include styrka (strength) and aderivatives such as stark (strong). In Swedish usage, stärka is a versatile term found in health, sport, business, and diplomacy.