adjective
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES
a strained/tense atmosphere (= not relaxed )
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As soon as I went in, I was aware of the tense atmosphere in the room.
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
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a strained expression
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After the argument there was a strained silence.
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I couldn't stand the strained atmosphere at dinner anymore.
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Our relationship became very strained because I had refused to lend him money.
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Since my father's affair things have been very strained between him and my mother.
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The strained atmosphere at the dinner made it difficult to chat with people.
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The meeting took place in a strained atmosphere.
EXAMPLES FROM CORPUS
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Enemas and suppositories may be of use but habitual use of these can create an unhappy and strained parent-child relationship.
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Its very awkwardness symbolises the strained relationship.
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Lesley-Jane looked strained and peaky and her performance was once again subdued.
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Ruth looked away from Fernando's strained features.
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She had difficulty attending to Mrs Browning's questions and replied in a strained voice.
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Will my hon. Friend look at the matter in light of the present strained position in the jobs market?