strained

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Big picture: The economy was strained by the conflict with Iran and higher oil prices, but it didn’t slow down much.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 23, 2026

Thousands more had scaled the steep cascading steps across the street, where they strained to watch for free.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 23, 2026

Relations between Tehran and Washington remain deeply strained, and many Iranian supporters were unable to travel to the United States to attend matches.

From Barron's • Jun. 21, 2026

Protesters, like Mecha Ramorola, also point to the country's strained public services with South African "people fighting for scarce resources".

From BBC • Jun. 16, 2026

His hands were white from pinching, and he shook as he strained against the thread.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack