a force or influence that stretches, pulls, or puts pressure on something, sometimes causing damage, a particular type or quality of something, especially one that is different from other things of the same general type, an injury to a muscle or similar soft part of the body caused by using that part too much

feel the strain, take the strain, under strain

put a strain on, strains of, a strain of bacteria/virus

Formal and Informal Expressions of strain

In different contexts, you can replace 'strain' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'pressure, burden' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'stress, load' is a commonplace synonym.

strain: Explore its Definition & Usage

strain Definition

1a force or influence that stretches, pulls, or puts pressure on something, sometimes causing damage
2a particular type or quality of something, especially one that is different from other things of the same general type
3an injury to a muscle or similar soft part of the body caused by using that part too much

Using strain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "strain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The strain of carrying heavy bags caused pain in her back.
Example
The bridge collapsed under the strain of the weight of the truck.
Example
This new strain of virus is more infectious than the previous one.
Example
She suffered a strain in her ankle after running for an hour.
Example
The company is experiencing financial strains due to the pandemic.

strain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for strain

Antonyms for strain

Idioms Using strain

feel the strain
to feel the pressure or stress of a difficult situation
Example
She's been working long hours and is starting to feel the strain.
take the strain
to take responsibility for dealing with a difficult situation
Example
I'll take the strain and handle the negotiations.
under strain
experiencing pressure or stress
Example
The relationship between the two countries is under strain due to political tensions.

Phrases with strain

put a strain on
to cause stress or difficulty for someone or something
Example
The pandemic has put a strain on many small businesses.
strains of
a particular type or quality of something
Example
The concert featured strains of classical and modern music.
a strain of bacteria/virus
a particular type or variety of bacteria/virus
Example
This strain of bacteria is resistant to antibiotics.

Origins of strain

from Old French 'estreindre', meaning 'to press tightly'

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Summary: strain in Brief

The term 'strain' [streɪn] refers to a force or influence that stretches, pulls, or puts pressure on something, often causing damage. It can also refer to a particular type or quality of something, or an injury to a muscle caused by overuse. Examples include 'The strain of carrying heavy bags caused pain in her back.' and 'This new strain of virus is more infectious than the previous one.' Idioms like 'feel the strain' and 'take the strain' denote experiencing or taking responsibility for difficult situations.