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strain

[streɪn]

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

  • to feel the pressure or stress of a difficult situation

    Example

    She's been working long hours and is starting to feel the strain.

  • to take responsibility for dealing with a difficult situation

    Example

    I'll take the strain and handle the negotiations.

  • experiencing pressure or stress

    Example

    The relationship between the two countries is under strain due to political tensions.

Phrases with strain

  • 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.

How do native speakers use this expression?