tensions rose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tensions rose" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where feelings of stress, anxiety, or conflict are increasing, often in a narrative or descriptive context. Example: "As the negotiations continued, tensions rose between the two parties, making it clear that a resolution was far from reach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Tensions rose.

The New Yorker

Tensions rose over "Literary Feuds".

The New Yorker

Tensions rose as the hours passed.

The New York Times

As with Greece now, social tensions rose.

The New York Times

Tensions rose quickly in Nightmare.

The New York Times

As more people gathered, tensions rose.

The Guardian

The strike dragged on and tensions rose.

The New York Times

Tensions rose in the area after the three deaths.

The New York Times

As the weeks dragged on, tensions rose in Venezuela.

The New York Times

As tensions rose, one asinine individual went too far.

The Guardian - Sport

But tensions rose as the evening wore on.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about ongoing events, use "tensions rose" to indicate a specific point where the situation became more strained. For a sustained period of high stress, consider "tensions remained high".

Common error

Avoid using "tensions rose" when describing a consistently tense environment. Instead, use phrases like "tensions were palpable" or "tensions remained high" to convey a sustained state of unease.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tensions rose" functions as an intransitive verbal phrase indicating an increase in stress, anxiety, or conflict. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use in various narrative and descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

18%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tensions rose" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe an increase in stress, anxiety, or conflict. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects an escalating situation rather than a static state. Alternatives like "anxieties escalated" or "conflict intensified" can provide nuanced variations. Remember to leverage this phrase to create vivid descriptions and convey turning points in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anxieties escalated

Focuses on the increase of anxiety or worry, rather than general stress.

pressure mounted

Suggests an increase in external demands or stress, contributing to tension.

unease grew

Emphasizes a gradual increase in discomfort or apprehension.

conflict intensified

Highlights the increasing severity of a disagreement or struggle.

hostility mounted

Suggests a growing sense of antagonism or unfriendliness.

situation deteriorated

Indicates a decline in overall conditions, often leading to increased tension.

tempers flared

Focuses on the increase in anger or irritability among individuals.

stakes heightened

Implies that the potential consequences or rewards became more significant, increasing tension.

discord increased

Highlights the increasing lack of harmony or agreement.

atmosphere soured

Describes a shift towards negativity or unpleasantness in the prevailing mood.

FAQs

How can I use "tensions rose" in a sentence?

Use "tensions rose" to describe a situation where stress or conflict is increasing. For example: "As the deadline approached, "tensions rose" in the office."

What can I say instead of "tensions rose"?

You can use alternatives like "anxieties escalated", "conflict intensified", or "unease grew depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "tensions rose" or "tensions raised"?

"Tensions rose" is correct when describing an increase in stress or conflict. "Tensions raised" implies that someone or something caused the tensions to increase.

What's the difference between "tensions rose" and "pressure mounted"?

"Tensions rose" generally refers to an increase in stress or conflict, while "pressure mounted" suggests an increase in external demands or stress.