Tautly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tautly
[ˈtɔːtli ]
Definitions
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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tautly |
Used when describing something that has been pulled tight or is stretched to its full extent, often in a physical sense.
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tightly |
Describes something that is held, packed, or tied without slack, often implying a secure or snug fit.
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firmly |
Best used when expressing determination or a strong, unyielding grip or stance. This can apply to both physical grip and metaphorical determination.
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concisely |
Appropriate when explaining or describing something in a clear and brief manner without unnecessary words.
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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.
used to describe something that is tightly stretched
Pulled or drawn tight; not slack. Stretched or pulled to the point of being tense.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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tautly |
This word describes something being pulled very tightly. It is often used to talk about physical objects like ropes or strings.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Examples of usage
- The tautly strung wire hummed in the wind.
- Her tautly pulled skin showed the stress she was under.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'tautly'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'tautly' originates from the adjective 'taut,' which comes from Middle English 'tought,' meaning 'tight, drawn, stretched.' The adverb form 'tautly' evolved from this, emphasizing the idea of something being done in a concise and controlled manner. The usage of 'tautly' has been seen in literature and everyday language to describe actions or situations that are tightly managed or controlled.