strain

[streɪn]

strain Definition

• 1. a force or influence that stretches, pulls, or puts pressure on something, sometimes causing damage
• 2. a particular type or quality of something, especially one that is different from other things of the same general type
• 3. an 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

• stress
• pressure
• tension
• burden
• load

Antonyms for strain

• relaxation
• ease

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.