Strained: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing a situation, relationship, or atmosphere that is difficult or uncomfortable due to tension or pressure.

• Their relationship has been strained since the argument.
• The conversation was strained and full of awkward pauses.

Best used when talking about situations or environments that are filled with anxiety, stress, or nervous tension.

• The atmosphere in the office was tense after the news of the layoffs.
• Everyone was tense as they awaited the results.

Appropriate for describing actions or expressions that appear insincere or done under pressure, often with a negative connotation.

• He gave a forced laugh that didn't sound genuine.
• Her smile felt forced at the party.

Used for describing things or behaviors that seem artificial, odd, or not true to nature or character, often with a negative implication.

• Her laughter sounded unnatural and made everyone uncomfortable.
• The color of the paint looked unnatural in the daylight.

Use this word when referring to something that has been put under pressure, whether physically or emotionally. It can also refer to liquid that has been cleared of solid particles.

• After running a marathon, his muscles felt strained
• The soup was strained to remove the vegetables

This word is appropriate when describing the process of removing unwanted parts or impurities, especially in liquids or information.

• The coffee was filtered to remove the grounds
• She filtered out the irrelevant details from the report

This word is best used when referring to the process of screening or examining something thoroughly, often to find something specific or to remove impurities.

• The archaeologists sifted through the dirt to find artifacts
• Before baking, you should sift the flour to avoid lumps

Use this word when you are talking about dividing or splitting things into distinct parts or groups.

• The teacher separated the students into two groups for the project
• We need to separate the recyclable materials from the trash