tension
word
Definition
A feeling of stress, worry, or nervousness, or a strained situation between people or groups. It can also mean the physical force of something being pulled tight.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for emotional stress ('feel tension'), relationship or political strain ('tension between them', 'racial tension'), and physical science contexts ('rope tension'). 'Stress' is more general for pressure; 'tension' often suggests tightness, strain, or a charged atmosphere. Common phrases: 'create tension', 'ease the tension', 'heightened tension'.
Example Sentences
His joke helped break the tension after the argument.
natural
There’s been growing tension between the two countries for months.
natural
There was a lot of tension in the room before the exam.
basic
The tension between the two brothers was obvious.
basic
The cable must have enough tension to hold the bridge.
basic
You could feel the tension rise as they waited for the results.
natural