tension
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tension
A state of inner restlessness, nervousness, or psychological stress, often before an important or difficult situation.
Vor der Prüfung war die Anspannung im Raum deutlich zu spüren.
Before the exam, the tension in the room was clearly noticeable.
tension
The state in which muscles or body parts are tight and cramped, for example during physical exertion or because of stress.
Durch die ständige Anspannung im Nacken bekam er Kopfschmerzen.
Because of the constant tension in his neck, he got headaches.
The word is derived from the verb 'anspannen' (to tense up). It describes the state that occurs when something is tensed—whether the mind or a muscle.
Vor dem Wettkampf spannte er jeden Muskel bewusst an.
Before the competition, he consciously tensed every muscle.
You can tell from the context whether psychological stress or muscular tension is meant. Words like 'Prüfung' (exam) or 'Stress' (stress) point to the psychological meaning, while body parts like 'Nacken' (neck) or 'Muskeln' (muscles) indicate the physical meaning.
Die Anspannung vor dem Vorstellungsgespräch war enorm.
The tension before the job interview was enormous.
For psychological stress, the phrase 'unter Anspannung stehen' (to be under tension/stress) is often used. You can also say 'Anspannung spüren' (to feel tension) or 'Anspannung abbauen' (to reduce tension).
Die Verhandlungsführer standen während der gesamten Konferenz unter großer Anspannung.
The negotiators were under great tension throughout the entire conference.
In medical or sports contexts, people often speak of 'muskuläre Anspannung' (muscular tension). Typical verbs in this context are 'lösen' (to release) or 'lockern' (to loosen).
Yoga-Übungen helfen dabei, muskuläre Anspannungen zu lösen.
Yoga exercises help release muscular tension.
stress
Stress is a burdensome state caused by particular demands or difficult circumstances. Anspannung refers more to inner restlessness or nervousness, often before an important situation. For ongoing pressure, Stress is more suitable; for tense anticipation before a specific event, Anspannung is more precise.
Kurz vor ihrem wichtigen Termin spürt Nina große Anspannung.
Shortly before her important appointment, Nina feels very tense.
Wegen mehrerer gleichzeitiger Termine hat Nina großen Stress.
Because of several appointments at the same time, Nina is under a lot of stress.
