be strained

Frequency: 8.525.0 per million words

To be in a state of being worried and tense, or to describe a situation or relationship that is not natural or friendly.

strainedVERB + strained

Categories:

be

Examples (10)

  • She was clearly strained after working 12-hour days for a month.
  • The atmosphere at the dinner party was strained due to their recent disagreement.
  • Their relationship had been strained for months before they finally broke up.
  • I could tell from his forced smile that he was strained and uncomfortable.
  • Negotiations between the two countries are strained over the disputed territory.
  • Even after the apology, the silence between them was still strained.
  • His voice was strained with emotion as he tried to speak.
  • The team's morale is strained under the relentless pressure from management.
  • Her patience was strained to its limit by the constant complaints.
  • The diplomatic ties between the two nations are currently strained.