Tautly: meaning, definitions and examples

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tautly

[ˈtɔːtli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used to describe something done in a concise and controlled manner

Done in a taut or concise manner; tightly. In a manner that is tense or strained. In a way that is firm and controlled.

Synonyms

concisely, firmly, tightly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tautly	Used when describing something that has been pulled tight or is stretched to its full extent, often in a physical sense. The rope was stretched tautly between the two poles. He tied the bag tautly to ensure it wouldn't come undone.
tightly	Describes something that is held, packed, or tied without slack, often implying a secure or snug fit. The lid was screwed on tightly to prevent leaks. She held her child's hand tightly in the crowded street.
firmly	Best used when expressing determination or a strong, unyielding grip or stance. This can apply to both physical grip and metaphorical determination. He shook my hand firmly, giving a good first impression. She spoke firmly, leaving no room for disagreement.
concisely	Appropriate when explaining or describing something in a clear and brief manner without unnecessary words. She explained the procedure concisely, so everyone could understand quickly. The report was written concisely to save time for the readers.

Examples of usage

He held the rope tautly as he climbed the steep cliff.
She spoke tautly, trying to control her anger.
The soldier stood tautly at attention.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

used to describe something that is tightly stretched

Pulled or drawn tight; not slack. Stretched or pulled to the point of being tense.

Synonyms

strained, stretched, tight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tautly	This word describes something being pulled very tightly. It is often used to talk about physical objects like ropes or strings. The rope was drawn tautly across the yard. He tied the tent canvas tautly.
tight	This word is used to describe something being firmly or closely held, fastened, or packed. It can also describe situations where there is little room for flexibility or error. Make sure the lid is on tight. We have a tight schedule to keep.
stretched	This word refers to something being pulled or extended to its full length or capacity, and can apply to both physical objects and abstract concepts like time or resources. The fabric stretched after being washed. Our budget is really stretched this month.
strained	This word is used when something is under pressure or tension, and it often has a negative connotation. It can describe physical objects, situations, or emotions. The strained relationship between the two countries worsened. She strained her voice by shouting too much.

Examples of usage

The tautly strung wire hummed in the wind.
Her tautly pulled skin showed the stress she was under.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'taut' comes from the Old English 'taht,' which means 'tight' or 'pulled.'
Related to the Middle Dutch word 'takt,' also implying tension or tightness.

Literature

Authors often use descriptions of taut tension to create suspense in stories, making readers feel more engaged.
In poetry, the word 'tautly' can be used to convey a sense of urgency or intensity, especially in emotional expression.

Physics

In mechanics, when materials are stretched tautly, they demonstrate principles of tension and elasticity, crucial in engineering.
Tension in strings (like guitar strings or bowstrings) is often discussed using terms like 'taut' to indicate how they produce sound.

Art

Some modern art uses taut lines and forms to create a sense of order and precision, visually emphasizing tension and structure.
In sculpture, a form can be described as tautly arranged when it exhibits a strong sense of formality and rigidity.

Psychology

The feeling of being taut or tense can be associated with stress, where muscles become taut in response to anxiety.
In mindfulness practices, being aware of tense areas in the body (taut muscles) is a common technique to achieve relaxation.

Translations

Translations of the word "tautly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 firmemente

🇮🇳 कसकर

🇩🇪 straff

🇮🇩 dengan kencang

🇺🇦 щільно

🇵🇱 ciasno

🇯🇵 きつく

🇫🇷 fermement

🇪🇸 firmemente

🇹🇷 sıkıca

🇰🇷 팽팽하게

🇸🇦 بإحكام

🇨🇿 pevně

🇸🇰 pevne

🇨🇳 紧紧地

🇸🇮 tesno

🇮🇸 þétt

🇰🇿 берік

🇬🇪 მჭიდროდ

🇦🇿 möhkəm

🇲🇽 firmemente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,436, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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36433 pimply
36434 unnerve
36435 clubfoot
36436 tautly
36437 slathered
36438 solemnizing
36439 mullein
...