create tension

USAGE SUMMARY

"create tension" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express the idea of something that causes anxiety or anticipation. For example, "The candidate's silence during the debate created a great deal of tension in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Did that create tension?

The Guardian - Sport

These contrasts can create tension.

The New York Times

"They create tension by not adding tension.

The New York Times - Arts

All could create tension with the Tories.

Independent

These people just want to create tension".

The New York Times

– becomes dependent upon very obvious devices to create tension.

Independent

Does such a small amount of give-aways create tension?

The Guardian

How you can charge a painting, create tension.

The Guardian - Arts

"They want to create tension among" the insurgent groups.

The Washington Post

Aitken's only instructions to the dancers were to "not dance" and to create "tension".

The New Yorker

Hoarding, an early symptom of mild cognitive impairment, can also create tension in a marriage.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "create tension" in writing, be mindful of the context. Consider whether you intend to evoke suspense, anxiety, or conflict, and choose your words accordingly. Ensure that the subject and object of the phrase clearly indicate who or what is creating the tension, and in what situation.

Common error

Avoid using "create tension" as a generic phrase without specifying the source and nature of the tension. Vague statements like "the scene created tension" lack impact. Instead, be specific: "The sudden silence created tension, as everyone waited for the verdict."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create tension" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "create" is the transitive verb and "tension" is the direct object. This structure indicates the act of bringing tension into existence. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "create tension" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of generating a state of unease, suspense, or conflict. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and widely applicable across diverse contexts. Its frequent use in "News & Media", "Science", and "Formal & Business" settings highlights its relevance in both objective reporting and analytical discussions. To ensure effective communication, be specific about the source and nature of the tension you're describing, and consider using alternatives like "generate suspense" or "build anticipation" to fine-tune the intended meaning. Remember to avoid vagueness and ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generate suspense

This alternative focuses more on anticipation and uncertainty, often used in storytelling.

build anticipation

Emphasizes the gradual increase of excitement or anxiety, highlighting the buildup.

foster unease

Highlights a feeling of discomfort and anxiety, suggesting a more negative emotional state.

provoke anxiety

Focuses on causing worry or nervousness, emphasizing the psychological impact.

heighten the stakes

Implies increasing the potential consequences of a situation, adding pressure and intensity.

whip up drama

This alternative suggests artificially creating excitement or conflict, often with a negative connotation.

exacerbate conflict

Focuses on intensifying existing disagreements or disputes, rather than creating tension from scratch.

brew unrest

Suggests a build-up of dissatisfaction or agitation, often in a social or political context.

spark discord

Highlights the introduction of disagreement or disharmony, emphasizing the disruption of peace.

engineer a crisis

Implies a deliberate and manipulative creation of a difficult or dangerous situation.

FAQs

How can I use "create tension" in a sentence?

You can use "create tension" to describe actions, situations, or elements that induce a feeling of unease, suspense, or conflict. For instance, "The unresolved plot points create tension throughout the novel."

What are some alternatives to "create tension"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "generate suspense", "build anticipation", or "foster unease".

Is it better to "create tension" or "build tension"?

Both "create tension" and "build tension" are valid, but "create" suggests initiating the tension, while "build" implies a gradual increase or intensification of existing tension.

What's the difference between "create tension" and "cause tension"?

"Create tension" implies a deliberate or artistic effort to evoke a feeling, while "cause tension" simply indicates that something results in a state of strain or anxiety, without necessarily implying intention.