巩固 gǒnggù to consolidate
to consolidate; to strengthen; firm; solid; stable
怎么记住“巩固”: 巩 to bind + 固 to solidify = to consolidate.
汉字
用法
- To consolidate / strengthen what's already gained: 巩固成果 (gǒnggù chéngguǒ) to cement gains, 巩固知识 (to reinforce knowledge).
- Implies making an existing position/foundation firm and lasting, not building anew.
- Compare 加强 (jiāqiáng, to strengthen/boost generally); 巩固 stresses stabilizing and securing.