What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
straitlaced
Example
My grandmother is very straitlaced and disapproves of anything she deems inappropriate. [straitlaced: adjective]
Example
He was raised in a straitlaced household where any deviation from the norm was not tolerated. [straitlaced: adjective]
uptight
Example
She's always so uptight about everything, it's hard to relax around her. [uptight: adjective]
Example
He became uptight when he realized he had forgotten his phone at home. [uptight: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Uptight is more commonly used than straitlaced in everyday language. Uptight is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while straitlaced is less common and refers to a more specific type of behavior or attitude.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between straitlaced and uptight?
While straitlaced is typically associated with a more formal or old-fashioned tone, uptight is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
