rising tensions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rising tensions" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it anytime to refer to increasing tension in a particular situation. For example, "The rising tensions between the two countries caused them to break diplomatic ties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

There have been signs of rising tensions.

The New York Times

Russia's Foreign Ministry released a statement condemning the rising tensions.

The New York Times

Rising tensions present a test for Mr. Lee.

The New York Times

The sentencing came amid rising tensions between Washington and Pyongyang.

The New York Times

Amid rising tensions, the strain is beginning to tell.

The Guardian

The rising tensions in the Caucasus are also threatening to spill into the international arena.

The New York Times

The remarks illustrated the rising tensions as the talks approach a deadline next Monday.

The Guardian

The impeachment proceedings come amid rising tensions between the Supreme Court and Mr. Rajapaksa's administration.

The New York Times

See articleDiplomatic wordsVenezuela recalled its ambassador to Colombia amid rising tensions between the two countries.

The Economist

The conflict comes at a time of rising tensions between Russia and Belarus.

The New York Times

G20 leaders gathered in Seoul to discuss rising tensions surrounding global fiscal and currency imbalances.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rising tensions" to describe situations where discord is increasing, but hasn't yet reached a breaking point. It's effective for foreshadowing potential conflicts.

Common error

Avoid using "rising tensions" when the conflict has already escalated into open warfare or violence. In such cases, phrases like "ongoing conflict" or "state of war" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rising tensions" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of increasing strain or conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rising tensions" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It effectively conveys an increase in strain, conflict, or animosity and is predominantly found in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "escalating conflicts" or "growing unrest" exist, "rising tensions" maintains a neutral tone suitable for various situations. Remember to use it when discord is on the rise, but hasn't yet reached a critical point. Its widespread use and clear meaning make it a valuable tool for writers and speakers alike.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

escalating conflicts

Replaces "tensions" with "conflicts", implying a more active state of disagreement.

growing unrest

Focuses on the underlying dissatisfaction that contributes to tension.

mounting pressure

Shifts the focus to the increasing stress or strain on a situation or entity.

building friction

Suggests a gradual increase in disagreement or opposition.

brewing conflict

Suggests an impending or developing conflict.

worsening relations

Highlights the deterioration of existing relationships.

inflamed relations

Implies a worsening of existing relationships.

heightened animosity

Emphasizes the increased level of hostility.

intensifying discord

Emphasizes the increasing lack of harmony or agreement.

simmering animosity

Implies an underlying hostility that is close to surfacing.

FAQs

How to use "rising tensions" in a sentence?

You can use "rising tensions" to describe an increase in stress, strain, or hostility between individuals, groups, or nations. For example: "The "rising tensions" between the two countries led to the border closure."

What can I say instead of "rising tensions"?

You can use alternatives like "escalating conflicts", "growing unrest", or "mounting pressure" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "rising tensions" or "raising tensions"?

"Rising tensions" is the correct phrase to describe an increase in existing tensions. "Raising tensions" implies someone or something is actively causing the tensions to increase.

What's the difference between "rising tensions" and "simmering tensions"?

"Rising tensions" suggest a current increase in stress or conflict. "Simmering tensions" indicate underlying, unresolved issues that could erupt at any time.