Translation guide
Describes a state of physical or mental tension, such as muscles tightening, a situation becoming strained, or a person feeling nervous or on edge.
Describing muscles or the body becoming stiff or tight, often due to stress, cold, or effort.
Commonly used for muscles or the body becoming stiff, often from cold, fear, or tension.
My body became tense from the cold.
My facial muscles tense up when I'm nervous.
Often used for muscles or strings becoming taut or tense. Can also describe a feeling of tightness.
My shoulders are tense.
Literally 'strength enters', meaning to become tense or stiffen up, often involuntarily.
I tensed up and my shoulders got stiff.
Describing a person becoming mentally tense, nervous, or anxious, often in social or high-pressure situations.
The most common and versatile word for becoming nervous or tense mentally. Used for stage fright, exams, important meetings, etc.
I get tense when speaking in front of people.
I always get nervous before exams.
Describes a state of mental alertness or tension, often when one is on guard or focused. Can be positive or negative.
Literally 'become stiff', used metaphorically for a person becoming tense or rigid in demeanor.
Describing a social atmosphere, relationship, or situation becoming tense, awkward, or strained.
Describes an atmosphere becoming tense, often with a sense of silent pressure or anticipation.
The atmosphere in the meeting room became tense.
Literally 'the air becomes heavy', a common expression for an atmosphere turning tense or uncomfortable.
A more formal or written word for a situation becoming tense or strained, often used in news or serious contexts.
緊張する is for mental/emotional nervousness, while こわばる is for physical stiffness. You can use both together: 緊張して体がこわばる (I'm nervous and my body tenses up).
緊張する is not used for muscle tension in a physical sense. Use こわばる or 張る instead. Saying 筋肉が緊張する sounds medical/technical, not everyday.
初めての仕事で気が張っていた。
I was tense because it was my first job.
He became tense in front of his boss.
He got angry and the atmosphere became tense.
Relations between the two countries are becoming tense.