Meaning & use
tension
A feeling of mental or emotional strain, or a state of unease between people or groups.
See it in a sentence
There was visible tension in the room as the two candidates avoided eye contact.
Trade tension between the two countries pushed prices higher across the region.
A note on using this word
Tension can describe emotional strain between people, physical tightness (as in a rope or muscle), or dramatic suspense in a story.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
easecalm
Another way to use it
2. noun
The state of being physically stretched tight.
Adjust the tension on the guitar string until it reaches the right pitch.
Make it your own
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