A technique physically amplifies strain to facilitate measurement of strain/displacement. A strain amplifying mechanism is mounted to a component being monitored for strain and comprises an input port and an output port. The strain amplifying mechanism is attached to the component such that the input port moves when the component undergoes strain. Movement of the input port causes movement of the output port over a distance greater than the physical movement of the input port. A strain sensor is coupled to the output port to detect its movement over the greater distance.