tension

[ˈtenʃən]

tension Definition

• 1. the state of being stretched tight
• 2. mental or emotional strain
• 3. a relationship between ideas or qualities with conflicting demands or implications

Using tension: Examples

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

• Example

  The tension in the rope was almost unbearable.

• Example

  The political tension between the two countries was high.

• Example

  The tension in the room was palpable as they waited for the test results.

tension Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tension

• stress
• pressure
• strain
• anxiety
• nervousness

Antonyms for tension

• relaxation
• calmness

Idioms Using tension

• on tenterhooks

  in a state of suspense or anxiety

  Example

  I've been on tenterhooks waiting for the results of my job interview.

• cut the tension with a knife

  a situation where there is a lot of tension or unease in the air

  Example

  The tension in the room was so thick you could cut it with a knife.

• take the tension out of something

  to make a situation less stressful or difficult

  Example

  Listening to music helps take the tension out of a long commute.

Phrases with tension

• sexual tension

  a feeling of sexual attraction or desire between two people that is not acted upon

  Example

  There was a lot of sexual tension between them, but they never acted on it.

• tension headache

  a type of headache caused by muscle tension in the head, neck, and shoulders

  Example

  I get tension headaches when I'm stressed out at work.

• tension rod

  a long, thin metal rod used to hold up curtains or other lightweight objects

  Example

  I need to buy a tension rod for the new curtains in my bedroom.

Origins of tension

from Latin 'tensio', meaning 'a stretching'

📌

Summary: tension in Brief

The term 'tension' [ˈtenʃən] refers to the state of being stretched tight, mental or emotional strain, and conflicting demands or implications. It can be physical, emotional, or intellectual, as in 'The political tension between the two countries was high.' 'Tension' extends into phrases like 'sexual tension,' and idioms like 'cut the tension with a knife,' denoting a situation with a lot of tension or unease in the air.