strain
verb (used with object)
to draw tight or taut, especially to the utmost tension; stretch to the full.
have strained
-
present perfectof strain.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
The Chinese leader’s policies have strained his country at home but given him great international stature.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 20, 2026
It is sandwiched between countries that have strained ties with the West: Russia to the north, China to the east and Iran and Afghanistan to the south.
From Barron's ● Nov. 6, 2025
Some national teams will be arriving from countries that have strained relations with the U.S.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 15, 2024
The leaders of Egypt, Somalia and Eritrea – countries which all have strained relations with Ethiopia – have been meeting in the Eritrean capital, Asmara.
From BBC ● Oct. 10, 2024
"Well, he certainly must have strained himself to get this menagerie together."
From " The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
