What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tautness
Example
The tautness of the rope made it difficult to tie a knot. [tautness: noun]
Example
The fabric had a pleasing tautness that made it easy to work with. [tautness: noun]
Example
The tautness in the room was palpable as everyone waited for the results. [tautness: noun]
tension
Example
The tension in the air was thick as the two sides faced off. [tension: noun]
Example
She felt tension in her shoulders after a long day at work. [tension: noun]
Example
The tense situation was diffused by a well-timed joke. [tense: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tension is more commonly used than tautness in everyday language. Tension is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tautness is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tautness and tension?
Both tautness and tension can be used in formal and informal contexts, but tension is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels.
