However, Chernenko did strengthen his position considerably at the beginning of 1985, not long before his death.

The dollar actually strengthened slightly, to 143.45 yen from 143.20 yen, before the announcement this morning.

We will strengthen equality before the law and equality of opportunity for the majority of the population - women.

But on the currency issue, she wants the yuan strengthened substantially before the Chinese figure out how to manufacture high-quality industrial floats.

Smith does exercises to strengthen his knee before every practice, and he did not play basketball during the off season until about two weeks before training camp.

"They are strengthening their hand before withdrawal," he said.

Under pressure from the West, the Government had agreed to strengthen election laws before today's vote.

For them, the prisoner issue is a way to strengthen themselves politically before a Palestinian public that wants tangible benefits from the peace talks, and fast.

That way they could always strengthen their rear before advancing.

Beryl quickly strengthened before landfall and reached its top winds of 60 mph.