Definition of “Tense”

Tense (noun):

1. Grammatical Term: A category in grammar that expresses the time at which an action or event takes place (e.g., past, present, future). It indicates when something happens relative to the present moment.
   • Example: “The verb ‘is’ is in the present tense.”
2. State of Mental or Physical Strain: A state of being stretched tight or a state of nervousness or anxiety.
   • Example: “There was a tense atmosphere in the room before the announcement.”

Tense (adjective):

1. Describing Strain: Stretched tight or exhibiting signs of physical or mental stress.
   • Example: “His muscles were tense after the workout.”
2. Describing Nervousness: Feeling anxious or nervous.
   • Example: “She felt tense before giving her presentation.”

Prepositions Used with “Tense”

• Tense about: Refers to being nervous or anxious about something.
  • Example: “He was tense about the upcoming exam.”
• Tense in: Refers to the form of the verb used.
  • Example: “The verb ‘will go’ is in the future tense.”

Collocations with “Tense”

• Present tense: A grammatical tense used to describe actions happening now.
• Past tense: A grammatical tense used to describe actions that happened in the past.
• Future tense: A grammatical tense used to describe actions that will happen in the future.
• Tense muscles: Muscles that are tight or strained.
• Tense situation: A situation characterized by nervousness or stress.
• Tense moment: A moment of high emotional or mental strain.
• Tense voice: A voice that sounds strained or anxious.
• Tense atmosphere: An environment filled with stress or anxiety.

Example Sentences

1. The verb “to eat” in the sentence “I eat an apple” is in the present tense.
2. The teacher explained the difference between the past tense and the future tense.
3. She felt tense as she awaited the results of her job interview.
4. His muscles were tense after lifting heavy weights at the gym.
5. The meeting had a tense atmosphere due to the serious nature of the discussions.
6. He used the present tense to describe his daily routine.
7. The tense in the sentence “She will go to the store” is future tense.
8. The movie’s tense scenes kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
9. She tried to relax her tense shoulders after a long day at work.
10. The teacher asked the students to identify the tense used in various sentences.
11. The tense between the two characters in the play was palpable.
12. He was tense about meeting his partner’s parents for the first time.
13. The exercise helped to release some of the tension from his back muscles.
14. The book’s narrative shifts between past tense and present tense.
15. The detective’s tense expression revealed his concern over the case.
16. She found it difficult to concentrate due to the tense atmosphere in the office.
17. The tense in “They had been waiting” is the past perfect continuous tense.
18. Her voice was tense as she spoke about the challenging situation.
19. The film’s climax was full of tense moments that built suspense.
20. He used a lot of past tense verbs in his storytelling to describe past events.
21. The tense during the negotiations was high due to conflicting interests.
22. She practiced deep breathing to help manage her tense feelings before the presentation.
23. The grammar exercise focused on identifying and using the correct tense.
24. The tension in the room was noticeable as the results were announced.
25. The tense in “I am writing a letter” is the present continuous tense.
26. He described the tense situation at work to his friends.
27. The actress’s portrayal of a tense character was convincing and dramatic.
28. The football match ended with a tense finish as both teams were tied.
29. She learned to differentiate between simple and perfect tenses in her English class.
30. The tension in his hands was evident as he prepared for the big exam.
31. The verb “will have been eating” is in the future perfect continuous tense.
32. The therapist helped her manage her tense reactions to stressful situations.
33. The tense dialogue between the protagonists added depth to the film.
34. His approach to the tense situation was calm and methodical.
35. The tense in “He had seen the movie before” is the past perfect tense.
36. She could not help but feel tense before the important meeting.
37. The tense atmosphere in the waiting room was palpable.
38. The teacher corrected the students’ use of tenses in their written work.
39. The tense in “We are going to the beach” is future with “going to.”
40. The actor’s portrayal of a tense moment in the film was highly praised.
41. The grammatical tense of the verb “speak” can vary based on the time of action.
42. She noticed her muscles were tense and needed to stretch.
43. The tense in “They have finished their work” is the present perfect tense.
44. The tense moment before the announcement was filled with anticipation.
45. The book’s shift from past tense to present tense created a dynamic narrative.
46. The tense in “She had been reading all night” is past perfect continuous.
47. The coach’s tense reaction showed how much he cared about the game.
48. She reviewed her notes on verb tenses before the grammar test.
49. The tense in “I was eating dinner” is the past continuous tense.
50. The film’s tense scenes were complemented by a suspenseful soundtrack.