have been strained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have been strained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or relationship that has been put under stress or pressure over a period of time. Example: "Their friendship has been strained due to constant misunderstandings and lack of communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Relations have been strained for decades.

The Economist

But Byron's loyalty must at times have been strained.

The Economist

Relations with the suburbs have been strained for decades.

The Economist

Relations between Warsaw and Moscow have been strained ever since.

The New York Times

But these advances have been strained by this year's surge.

The New York Times

Even in the cities, however, resources have been strained.

Britannica

Relations between Britain and Iran have been strained recently.

The New York Times

But the program's relations with the University often have been strained.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Abraham Lincoln's famed "mystic chords of memory" have been strained--and appear ready to snap.

Huffington Post

And relations between Britain and the internet have been strained of late.

The Guardian - Opinion

Focus and morale have been strained as much as budgets and manpower.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have been strained", ensure the context clearly indicates what is experiencing the strain, such as relationships, resources, or systems. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "have been strained" vaguely. Always specify what is being strained and, if possible, the cause of the strain to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Relations have been strained", specify "Relations between the two countries have been strained due to trade disputes."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have been strained" functions as a verb phrase indicating a state of stress or difficulty affecting a relationship, resource, or system. Ludwig examples show it commonly describes damaged interpersonal or international relations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

13%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have been strained" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe situations or relationships experiencing pressure or difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, it's important to specify what is being strained to provide clarity and avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "have deteriorated" or "are under strain" to fine-tune your meaning. Be mindful of the register, as the phrase is generally neutral and suitable for both professional and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have become tense

Highlights the increased tension and unease in the relationship.

have been under pressure

Directly indicates the presence of stress and strain on the relationship.

have deteriorated

Focuses on the worsening condition of the relationship or situation.

are under strain

Changes the tense to the present, emphasizing the current state of pressure.

have soured

Emphasizes the negative shift in the relationship, suggesting bitterness.

have been tested

Suggests that the relationship has faced challenges that put it under pressure.

have become difficult

Indicates increased challenges and problems in the relationship.

have suffered

Focuses on the negative impact or damage to the relationship.

are experiencing difficulties

Highlights the current experience of problems or challenges.

have reached a breaking point

Suggests that the relationship is on the verge of collapse due to excessive strain.

FAQs

How can I use "have been strained" in a sentence?

The phrase "have been strained" is used to indicate that a relationship, resource, or system is experiencing pressure or difficulties. For example, "Relations between the two companies "have been strained" due to the recent lawsuit."

What are some alternatives to "have been strained"?

You can use alternatives such as "have deteriorated", "have become tense", or "are under strain" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "have been strained"?

Yes, "have been strained" is grammatically correct and widely used to describe relationships or resources that are experiencing pressure or difficulties, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

What's the difference between "have been strained" and "have been tense"?

"Have been strained" implies that something is under pressure, while "have been tense" suggests a state of unease or anticipation of conflict. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the pressure or the tension.