heightened tension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "heightened tension" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where the dynamics between two or more people or groups have become more strained and intense. For example: "The presence of the police at the protest caused a heightened tension between the two sides."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it is also a place of fierce competition and heightened tension.

The New York Times - Sports

The event provoked a small riot, arrests and heightened tension in the area.

The New York Times

There has been a mood of heightened tension at the Paris haute couture shows.

Independent

Street protests, first in Ankara and then in Istanbul, have heightened tension.

The Economist

Murray holds to 15. "I fear heightened tension today," says Stuart Robinson.

The Guardian - Sport

The combination of high intensity and high frequency vibrotactile stimuli heightened tension on the other hand.

Entertainment Computing

Spectacular bomb blasts in Kabul, in August, and the Taliban's temporary capture of Kunduz, in late September, heightened tension further.

The New Yorker

"Since it was misinterpreted, the reaction was disappointing, and in fact only heightened tension and increased mistrust".

The New Yorker

THERE has been combat in the air during this holiday season and heightened tension at airport security check-ins.

The New York Times

But given the present atmosphere of heightened tension surrounding this issue, such comments are particularly dangerous and revealing.

The Guardian - Opinion

The BBC's David Stern says the attack on the statue has heightened tension in Kiev.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "heightened tension" to describe situations where underlying stress or conflict has noticeably increased. For example, "The trade negotiations occurred during a period of heightened tension between the two nations."

Common error

While "heightened tension" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly dramatic in everyday situations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "increased stress" or "unease" when describing minor disagreements or inconveniences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heightened tension" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a state of increased stress, anxiety, or conflict, as exemplified in Ludwig's examples, where events or situations contribute to this intensified state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "heightened tension" is a commonly used noun phrase that accurately describes an increase in stress, anxiety, or conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, with neutral or professional register. While effective, it's important to consider simpler alternatives like "increased strain" or "growing unease" in less formal scenarios. Use "heightened tension" to convey a notable escalation in existing pressures, ensuring clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increased strain

Focuses more on the pressure or burden aspect.

rising anxiety

Specifically relates to the emotional aspect of tension.

amplified stress

Similar to aggravated stress but suggests a greater degree of increase.

growing unease

Highlights the feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

aggravated stress

Highlights the worsening of existing stress.

mounting pressure

Emphasizes the external forces causing the tension.

exacerbated unease

Focuses on the deepening feeling of discomfort.

intensified friction

Suggests increased disagreement or opposition.

escalated conflict

Implies a progression towards open hostility.

inflamed situation

Indicates a worsening and potentially volatile scenario.

FAQs

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

Use "heightened tension" to describe a situation where stress, anxiety, or conflict has noticeably increased. For example, "There was "heightened tension" in the room as the jury delivered the verdict".

What's the difference between "heightened tension" and "increased tension"?

While similar, "heightened tension" suggests a more significant and noticeable increase in stress or anxiety compared to "increased tension". "Heightened" implies a peak or a more pronounced state.

What can I say instead of "heightened tension"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "increased strain", "growing unease", or "rising anxiety".

Is "heightened tension" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "heightened tension" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in news reports, academic papers, and professional communications where describing an elevated state of stress or conflict is necessary.