Tense – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Tense (adjective)

Tense is an adjective to describe a state of mental or physical strain, anxiety, or tightness. It can refer to feelings of nervousness or situations where something is under pressure or stress.

Examples

• She felt tense before her big presentation.
• He was tense during the job interview.
• Tense muscles from stress caused him discomfort.
• The situation became tense after the argument.
• Their tense relationship made communication difficult.
• He stood in a tense posture waiting for news.
• The meeting was filled with tense moments.

Meaning

• Nervous
• Anxious
• Tight
• Stressed
• Uneasy

Pronunciation

• UK: /tɛns/ (TENS)
• US: /tɛns/ (TENS)

Synonyms

• Anxious
• Nervous
• Uneasy
• Stressed
• Taut
• Rigid
• Strained
• On edge
• Agitated
• Jittery

Usage Tips for Tense

• Used to describe feelings of anxiety or pressure.
• It often refers to physical or emotional strain.
• It can describe a person, a situation, or even a physical state.
• Avoid using it for calm or relaxed situations.
• Best used to convey heightened emotional or physical states.

Origin

Tense (Middle English, 1300-1400):

It is derived from the Latin tensus, which means stretched.

Similar Words to Tense

• Anxious
• Stressed
• Taut
• Strained
• Nervous
• Jittery
• Uneasy
• Agitated

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of tense in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, tense means کشیدہ or اضطراب.

Q: How do we use tense in a sentence?

Ans: The tense moment before the announcement kept everyone on edge.

Q: What’s the difference between tense and nervous?

Ans: Tense often refers to physical tightness or strain, while nervous emphasizes worry or fear.

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