tension arises

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tension arises" is perfectly correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that some situation has become more difficult or strained, usually due to a disagreement or conflict. For example, "Once the disagreement between the two governments became public, tension arose between them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Some of the tension arises from whether poultry are viewed as livestock or as pets.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This tension arises primarily because surface air temperatures respond faster to radiative forcings than sea levels.

Nature

Patty and her lover Charlotte are moving upstate with their newly adopted baby, and tension arises over the transition.

The New York Times - Books

But he conceded that much of the tension arises from the unthinking way that some people use Twitter.

The New York Times

Now the Q & A is remedial multiple choice, the booths look air-conditioned and the only tension arises when the M.C., Maury Povich, tries to crack a joke.

The New York Times

The novel's tension arises from another quarter: the question of whether Chris, mired in restraint and self-recrimination, will muster the verve to make Roza a dishonest woman.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

A similar tension arose when participants reviewed and discussed a videotaped mediation session.

Harvard University

Domestically in the US, tension arose between the regulatory agencies and trade agencies due to their differing missions.

Harvard University

Though the press materials promise that the play "explores the challenging relationship" between Sam and Natalie, only rarely does real tension arise.

The New York Times

But as relations between England and France worsened in the 1330s, tension arose between the count and the Flemish towns.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Britain annexed New Zealand through the Treaty of Waitangi (1840), but interethnic tension arose between the indigenous Maori.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tension arises", ensure the context clearly indicates the source or cause of the tension for clarity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "tension arises" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "things got awkward" or "a problem started" for everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tension arises" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the emergence or intensification of conflict, unease, or strain. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tension arises" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe the emergence of conflict or unease. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a variety of writing contexts, though perhaps less so for very informal situations. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, the phrase serves to signal the beginning of a problem. Consider alternatives like "conflict emerges" or "strain develops" for nuanced variations in meaning. It is important to consider the context to guarantee the phrase keeps its high informative level.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conflict emerges

Replaces "tension" with "conflict", focusing on open disagreement, with a similar implication of a developing problem.

strain develops

Substitutes "tension" with "strain" and "arises" with "develops", highlighting the gradual increase of pressure or stress.

friction escalates

Changes "tension" to "friction" and "arises" to "escalates", suggesting a worsening of disagreement or opposition.

discord surfaces

Replaces "tension" with "discord" and "arises" with "surfaces", indicating that disagreement becomes noticeable or apparent.

unease grows

Substitutes "tension" with "unease" and "arises" with "grows", focusing on the increasing feeling of anxiety or discomfort.

difficulties emerge

Replaces "tension" with the broader term "difficulties", indicating the beginning of problems or challenges.

problems surface

Similar to "difficulties emerge", but more direct, indicating that problems are becoming apparent.

a problem begins

More generally states the start of a problematic situation.

issues arise

Uses the general term "issues" instead of "tension", indicating that problems or topics of concern are emerging.

matters intensify

Shifts the focus to the intensification of existing issues rather than the emergence of new tension.

FAQs

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

Use "tension arises" to indicate the beginning of a conflict, disagreement, or difficulty. For example, "Tension arises when team members have conflicting goals."

What are some alternatives to "tension arises"?

You can use alternatives like "conflict emerges", "strain develops", or "problems surface" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "tensions arise"?

Yes, "tensions arise" is also correct. Using the plural "tensions" suggests that multiple sources or types of tension are emerging, while "tension arises" indicates a single, general feeling of strain.

What is the difference between "tension arises" and "tension exists"?

"Tension arises" implies that tension is beginning or increasing, while "tension exists" indicates that tension is already present.