interrupt the tension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "interrupt the tension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a situation or narrative is building suspense or anxiety, and you want to indicate a break or change in that atmosphere. Example: "The sudden arrival of the unexpected guest served to interrupt the tension that had been building in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The philosophical ruminations and product specifications are so deftly interspersed in the run, hide, blow-things-up stream of his narrative that, rather than interrupt the tension, they actually heighten it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

4. Interrupt the Interrupters.

Huffington Post

Thus, successful and persisting removal of excessive scar tissue may be achieved by employing Z- or W-plasty, grafts or local skin flaps to interrupt the vicious circle between scar tension and consecutive further thickening of the scar due to permanently stimulated ECM production.

Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology

It fell to Shirin Ebadi, the exiled Iranian Nobel peace prize winner and human rights activist, to break the tension, interrupt her speech and make the link between the bird, peace and the environment.

The Guardian

"No ally would wish to interrupt the integrated Nato defence arrangements in the North Sea and North Atlantic – least of all at a time of heightened tension with Russia.

The Guardian

They interrupt the viewing experience.

TechCrunch

"You can interrupt the disease.

Huffington Post

I completely interrupt the pattern.

Huffington Post

Never interrupt the judge.

WikiHow

Do not interrupt the proceedings.

WikiHow

Don't interrupt the group.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "interrupt the tension", consider the context. Does the tension need to be completely broken, or just eased? Choose a synonym accordingly.

Common error

Avoid using "interrupt the tension" when a more gradual reduction of tension is desired. Phrases like "ease the tension" or "relieve the tension" might be more appropriate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "interrupt the tension" functions as a verb phrase where "interrupt" acts as the verb and "the tension" serves as the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and usable in English writing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "interrupt the tension" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies breaking or disrupting a state of suspense or anxiety. According to Ludwig AI, it is applicable across various contexts, though more frequently found in news and media sources. While similar phrases like "break the tension" or "ease the tension" offer subtle differences in meaning, understanding these nuances enhances precision in writing. When employing this phrase, consider whether a complete disruption or a gradual reduction of tension is more appropriate for the desired effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

break the tension

Uses "break" instead of "interrupt", implying a more forceful end to the tension.

ease the tension

Suggests a gradual reduction of tension, rather than an abrupt stop.

relieve the tension

Similar to "ease the tension", but focuses on providing relief from the tension.

diffuse the tension

Implies spreading out the tension to reduce its intensity.

alleviate the tension

Similar to relieving, but with a stronger emphasis on lessening the burden of tension.

defuse the situation

Focuses on the overall situation rather than just the tension, implying a broader resolution.

calm the atmosphere

Shifts the focus to the overall environment and making it less tense.

mitigate the stress

Targets the stress aspect of the tension, implying a reduction in pressure.

soften the mood

Focuses on making the emotional atmosphere more pleasant and less strained.

dissipate the anxiety

Targets the feeling of anxiety associated with the tension, suggesting it fades away.

FAQs

What does "interrupt the tension" mean?

The phrase "interrupt the tension" means to break or disrupt a state of suspense, anxiety, or strain, typically by introducing a change or distraction.

How can I "interrupt the tension" in a story?

You can "interrupt the tension" by introducing humor, a change of scenery, a plot twist, or a resolution to the conflict. For example, a comedic character might "break the tension" with a witty remark.

What is a synonym for "interrupt the tension"?

Synonyms for "interrupt the tension" include "ease the tension", "relieve the tension", "diffuse the tension", or "alleviate the tension".

Is it better to "interrupt the tension" or "build the tension" in writing?

Whether to "interrupt the tension" or "build the tension" depends on the desired effect. Building tension creates suspense and anticipation, while interrupting it can provide relief, humor, or a turning point in the narrative.