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stress
/stɹɛs/
When used to describe mental pressure, "stress" is usually an uncountable noun (e.g., "too much stress"), meaning you don't typically say "many stresses." In a physical or engineering context, it refers to the internal force acting on a material. It is often used with the preposition "under," as in "under stress." As a verb, it is commonly used in professional or educational settings to highlight a key point. It is synonymous with "emphasize."
💬Casual Conversation
I'm literally shaking. The stress is eating me alive.
Maybe if you stopped scrolling and actually grinded, you'd feel better.
Meanings
Mental or emotional strain resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances.
"The high-pressure environment of the job caused her a great deal of stress."
Pressure exerted on a material object, typically one that causes deformation.
"The bridge collapsed because the steel beams were under too much stress."
The relative emphasis or prominence given to a syllable in pronunciation.
"In the word 'apple', the stress is on the first syllable."
To give particular emphasis or importance to a point, statement, or piece of information.
"The teacher continued to stress the importance of arriving on time."
To place a particular emphasis on a syllable when speaking.
"You should stress the second syllable in this word."
Examples
I can't handle the stress of this project anymore!
Look, I really need to stress how dangerous this is.
The stress on the joint is causing a visible crack.
Stop! You're putting too much stress on that handle!
I just have so much stress at home right now.
Wait, do you stress the first or second syllable here?
I'll stress this again: do not touch my stuff!
The stress of the wedding is making her snap.
You need to stress the end of the sentence more.
My doctor says this stress is killing my sleep.