tense relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tense relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used to describe a strained relationship between two people, such as a romantic couple or family members. For example: "The couple's tense relationship finally ended in divorce."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have a tense relationship with them".

The Guardian

Since then they have enjoyed a tense relationship.

Independent

My dad and I had a tense relationship.

The New Yorker

Former president Barack Obama had a tense relationship with Putin.

The Washington Post

China and Taiwan have long had a tense relationship.

The Washington Post

While the gym was never built, a tense relationship remained.

The New York Times

Political journalists and political scientists have a tense relationship.

The New Yorker

And he is trying to manage a tense relationship with the military.

The New York Times

Like everything else in Taiwan, the art collection is coloured by the tense relationship with China.

The Economist

It has always had a tense relationship with Al Azhar, the great Sunni seminary of Cairo.

The New York Times

Even the Gospel According to John still preserved traces of Jesus' tense relationship with his mother.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "tense relationship", provide specific examples or context to illustrate the source and nature of the tension. This adds depth and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "tense relationship" without providing sufficient context. Instead, explain the specific reasons behind the tension, such as conflicting values, unresolved conflicts, or communication breakdowns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tense relationship" functions as a noun phrase, where "tense" modifies the noun "relationship". It describes the quality or state of a connection between individuals, groups, or entities. Ludwig AI confirms this, citing numerous examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tense relationship" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a strained connection between individuals or entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely used in news and media to depict conflicts and uneasy dynamics. Alternatives such as "strained relationship" or "difficult relationship" can be used to vary your writing, but "tense relationship" remains a clear and effective choice. To use the phrase effectively, provide context and specific examples to illustrate the tension. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Scientific sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strained relationship

Focuses on the presence of strain and difficulty, emphasizing the impaired nature of the relationship.

difficult relationship

Highlights the challenges and hardships present in the relationship.

unstable relationship

Emphasizes the lack of security and predictability.

rocky relationship

Implies a relationship with many ups and downs, marked by conflict and instability.

contentious relationship

Stresses the presence of frequent arguments and disagreements.

complicated relationship

Highlights the complexity and confusing dynamics within the relationship.

fragile relationship

Emphasizes the delicateness and vulnerability of the bond.

troubled relationship

Focuses on the distress and problems associated with the relationship.

awkward relationship

Highlights the discomfort and uneasiness present in the interaction.

fractured relationship

Implies a broken or severely damaged connection that is difficult to repair.

FAQs

How can I effectively illustrate a "tense relationship" in writing?

Provide specific details and examples of interactions or events that demonstrate the tension. Show, don't just tell, the reader about the strained dynamics between the individuals or entities involved.

What are some alternatives to "tense relationship" that I can use to vary my writing?

You can use alternatives like "strained relationship", "difficult relationship", or "rocky relationship" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "tense relationship" in formal writing?

Yes, "tense relationship" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure that the context is clear and that you provide sufficient detail to explain the nature of the tension. More formal synonyms like "contentious relationship" or "fragile relationship" may also be considered.

What factors typically contribute to a "tense relationship"?

Factors can include conflicting interests, poor communication, unresolved past conflicts, power imbalances, or external pressures. Identifying these factors can help clarify the nature and source of the tension.