increased tension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "increased tension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where stress, anxiety, or conflict has escalated. Example: "The increased tension between the two countries has raised concerns about potential conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their actions increased tension.

The Guardian - Opinion

The news increased tension between the two countries even further.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The roller coaster increased tension but eventually led to talks.

The New York Times

Caffeine reduced feelings of fatigue and increased tension and vigor.

Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior

Sending children on occasional visits to other schools simply increased tension and suspicion between them.

The Guardian - Opinion

The inclusion of tech products only increased tension between the tech industry and the Trump administration.

The New York Times

Although the biggest impact is felt by residents, the increased tension is likely to worry World Cup organisers.

The Guardian

The deployment is intended to reassure former Soviet bloc members in light of increased tension between Russia and Ukraine.

The Guardian

The arrest increased tension between the central government of President Evo Morales and the authorities in the tropical lowlands.

The New York Times

Increased tension between Israel and Ḥamās translated into violence in and around the Gaza Strip.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The incident caused an international furor and increased tension between NATO and the Warsaw Pact countries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "increased tension", consider the specific context to choose a more descriptive synonym if appropriate, such as "escalated conflict" or "heightened strain".

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "increased tension" in your writing. Vary your phrasing by using alternatives like "growing unease" or "rising pressure" to maintain reader engagement and provide nuanced descriptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "increased tension" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a state or condition. As noted by Ludwig, it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

26%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "increased tension" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase. It describes a state where stress, strain, or conflict has intensified. Ludwig AI indicates that it is suitable for use in written English. While common, consider using synonyms like "heightened strain" or "escalated conflict" for variety and precision. It is most often found in News & Media sources and its register is generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heightened strain

Emphasizes the degree of pressure being more intense.

escalated conflict

Focuses specifically on the increase in active disagreement or hostility.

rising pressure

Highlights the building up of force or stress.

growing unease

Indicates a gradual increase in discomfort or anxiety.

intensified friction

Suggests a greater degree of disagreement or conflict between parties.

mounting anxiety

Emphasizes the accumulation of anxious feelings.

worsening relations

Highlights the deterioration of relationships between entities.

aggravated situation

Points to a condition that has become more severe or problematic.

exacerbated stress

Focuses on stress that has been made worse.

amplified discord

Emphasizes a greater level of disagreement or disharmony.

FAQs

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

You can use "increased tension" to describe situations where stress or conflict has escalated. For example, "The "increased tension" between the two departments led to several disagreements".

What can I say instead of "increased tension"?

You can use alternatives like "heightened strain", "escalated conflict", or "rising pressure" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "increased tension" or "heightened tension"?

Both "increased tension" and "heightened tension" are correct and can be used interchangeably, although "heightened tension" might suggest a more dramatic or significant increase.

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

"Increased tension" generally refers to a state of strained relations or anxiety, while "increased pressure" often refers to a greater demand or burden being placed on someone or something. Both are related but not interchangeable.