Stress Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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stress
[strษs ]
Definitions
mental
Pressure or tension exerted on a material object, typically measured in units of force per unit area.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stress |
Used to describe emotional or mental strain caused by demanding circumstances.
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| pressure |
Refers to a sense of urgency or a demand for quick action, often in high-stakes situations.
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| strain |
Usually used to describe physical or emotional tension, often implying long-term effort or difficulty.
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| tension |
Describes a feeling of nervousness, worry, or strained relationships between people.
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Examples of usage
- The bridge collapsed due to the stress on its support beams.
- She couldn't handle the stress of the demanding job.
psychological
A state of mental or emotional strain resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stress |
Refers to a state of mental or emotional strain resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances. Can relate to work, studies, relationships, or health. Often used to describe a broad range of challenging situations.
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| anxiety |
Describes a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. Often linked with mental health and can be more pervasive and long-term.
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| tension |
Refers to a feeling of strain or anxiety often in a specific situation or environment, such as during a conflict or before a significant event. Can also describe the physical sensation of muscle tightness.
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| pressure |
Indicates a sense of urgent demand or expectations from external sources such as work, social obligations, or personal goals. Often conveys the feeling of having to meet high standards or complete tasks rapidly.
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Examples of usage
- He was under a lot of stress before the exam.
- Stress can have a negative impact on one's health.
physics
Apply a force to (a body) in such a way as to cause deformation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stress |
Use when referring to mental or emotional pressure or tension. It can also describe physical pressure on a material or object.
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| strain |
Best used when talking about physical tension, effort, or injury caused by excessive force. Can also refer to mental pressure but is less common.
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| stretch |
Used to describe the action of extending muscles or objects to their full length. It generally has a neutral or positive connotation.
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| tense |
Used to describe a state of being when muscles are tight or when someone feels anxious or nervous. It can have a negative or uncomfortable connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The weight of the snow stressed the roof of the building.
- He stressed the importance of regular exercise.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling stress can trigger the 'fight or flight' response, which helps people react to danger.
- Chronic stress can affect both mental and physical health, increasing the risk of conditions like anxiety and heart disease.
- Some people experience stress as a temporary challenge, while for others, it can be constant, leading to burnout.
Science
- The concept of stress in materials science refers to the internal forces within a material, helping to explain changes in shape or structure when forces are applied.
- Biological stress responses can initiate the release of hormones such as cortisol, preparing the body for potential threats.
- Research shows that mindfulness and relaxation techniques can effectively lower physiological stress markers in the body.
History
- The term 'stress' originates from the Latin word 'stringere', meaning 'to draw tight', emphasizing how pressure can affect both mind and body.
- In the 1930s, Hans Selye was one of the first scientists to study stress systematically, describing it as the body's non-specific response to demands.
- Stress management techniques have evolved from ancient practices such as yoga to modern therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often depict characters dealing with stress, emphasizing the importance of mental health in storytelling.
- The popular phrase 'stress balls' became common in the 1980s, representing a fun way to relieve tension.
- Various musical genres and songs address themes of stress and coping, resonating with listeners' personal experiences.
Education
- Stress in school is frequently discussed, with studies showing that students experience high levels of stress during exams.
- Educational programs now focus on teaching stress management to help students cope with academic pressures.
- Teachers are increasingly trained to recognize signs of stress in students to provide support and resources.
Origin of 'stress'
The word 'stress' originated from the Latin word 'strictus', which means 'drawn tight'. In the 17th century, it was used in the context of physical pressure or strain. The psychological sense of the word emerged in the 19th century. Today, 'stress' is a common term used to describe various forms of pressure, tension, and strain in both physical and mental aspects of life.
See also: destressing, stressed, stressor.