Strained (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Showing signs of mental and emotional tension; "her voice was strained as she asked the question".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Meaning 2
Lacking spontaneity; not natural; "a constrained smile"; "forced heartiness"; "a strained smile".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Synonyms
Meaning 3
Struggling for effect; "agonistic poses".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The actor's strained expressions failed to convey the depth of emotion the scene required.
- Her strained smile made her look more uncomfortable than welcoming.
- The strained poses of the bodybuilder on stage seemed more like a parody of strength than an actual display of it.
- The strained tone of the singer's voice made the song sound more like a scream than a melody.
- The strained facial contortions of the comedian's routine fell flat with the audience.
Synonyms
Meaning 4
Lacking natural ease; "a labored style of debating".
Classification
All adjective clusters.