TENSES Synonyms: 14 Similar and Opposite Words

tenses

verb

present tense third-person singular of tense

as in tightens

to draw tight he tensed his muscles and attempted to lift the heavy appliance onto the truck

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of tenses Breezily elegant in execution and at times even Hitchcockian, The Girlfriend is a delicious thriller that tenses up with each new scene and revelation. —

Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 30 Jan. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for tenses

tightens

Verb

Now, as drought tightens across the seven states that share the Colorado River, Upper Basin states are calling on California to cut its diversions in exchange for more desalination facilities.

— Sara Sutherland, Oc Register, 8 June 2026
The plan tightens emission limits while creating new incentives and free permits aimed at preventing refineries and manufacturers from leaving the state.

— Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2026