Straining: meaning, definitions and examples

This word usually has a negative connotation and refers to the act of exerting oneself or something to the limit, often causing discomfort or damage.

• Lifting that heavy box was really straining my back
• She was straining to see what was written on the blackboard

Best used when talking about the process of learning the skills needed for a particular job, activity, or sport. This term is often used in professional and physical contexts.

• She is undergoing training to become a nurse
• The team had weeks of training before the championship

This word is best used when talking about formal learning, especially in schools, colleges, and universities. It refers to the process of receiving or providing systematic instruction.

• She is pursuing a higher education in law
• Good education is essential for personal and professional growth

Use this term when referring to the act of teaching or the detailed information on how to do something. It is often used for practical guidance rather than formal education.

• The manual provides clear instructions on how to assemble the furniture
• He gave me instructions on how to complete the application

Used to describe the act of extending one's limbs or muscles to their full length, often to improve flexibility or relieve tension. It can also be used metaphorically.

• He does stretching exercises every morning
• Stretching before a workout can help prevent injuries

Used when referring to a situation where someone is pushing themselves physically or mentally beyond their usual limits.

• He was straining to lift the heavy box.
• She felt her eyes straining after hours of screen time.

Used in a general sense to describe the use of physical or mental energy to achieve something.

• She put in a lot of effort to complete the project.
• The team’s effort finally paid off with a win.

Emphasizes physical or mental energy used, often implying significant effort.

• The mountain climb required intense physical exertion.
• He felt the mental exertion after solving a difficult problem.

Often used to refer to emotional or mental tension, typically in response to challenging or adverse circumstances.

• She felt a lot of stress before the big presentation.
• The stress of moving to a new city was overwhelming.

Often refers to the stress or urgency felt in challenging situations, such as deadlines or high expectations.

• The deadline is putting a lot of pressure on the team.
• He felt pressure to perform well in the exams.

Used to describe a state of tension or difficulty, both physically and mentally, that often leads to fatigue or stress.

• The long hours had put a strain on their relationship.
• He felt a strain in his back after lifting the weights.

This term is often used when someone is putting in excessive effort or struggling to do something, often to the point of causing discomfort or injury.

• He was straining to lift the heavy weights at the gym.
• You could see her straining to hear the conversation in the noisy room.

This word is generally used for extending something to its full length or capacity, often in the context of flexibility and physical movement.

• Every morning, she takes time to stretch her muscles.
• The rubber band can stretch quite far without breaking.

Often used in the context of applying force to move something towards oneself. Can also imply effort but usually physical.

• He managed to pull the heavy door open.
• She had to pull her friend away from the crowd.

Commonly used to indicate making something more secure or less loose, often involving turning or pulling to increase tension.

• You need to tighten the screws to make sure the shelf is secure.
• He's trying to tighten his grip on the rope.

Used when something is being made longer or stretched out, either physically or in terms of time and space.

• They decided to extend their vacation by another week.
• The filmmaker will extend the credits to include more contributors.

Primarily used when someone is applying physical or mental energy or effort. It has a neutral connotation.

• She had to exert a lot of effort to finish the marathon.
• To solve this problem, you'll need to exert all your analytical skills.

Used when someone is making a very strong effort, often involving physical tension or stress.

• She was straining to lift the heavy box.
• He felt his muscles straining under the weight.

Indicates significant difficulty in effort, often with a sense of resistance or opposition. Can have a negative connotation.

• They struggled to make ends meet.
• He was struggling with his math homework.

Applies to a serious, sustained effort toward a particular goal, usually involving planning and perseverance.

• The team's endeavor to win the championship paid off.
• Their scientific endeavor led to groundbreaking discoveries.

Used when someone is making a forceful effort to achieve or move something, either physically or metaphorically. Informal context.

• She had to push herself to finish the race.
• The company needs to push for better customer service.

Utilized when someone is applying a lot of physical or mental effort. It often implies a controlled and conscious effort.

• You need to exert more effort in your studies.
• He exerted his influence to get the project approved.

Used for making an attempt or effort, typically without indicating the intensity or outcome. A common, everyday word.

• I'll try to call you later.
• She tried her best in the competition.