strained

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.

This week, McDonald’s executives said that their lower-income consumers feel strained and that growth in the industry is likely to stay muted.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

Chaves has had strained ties with local media, whom he accuses of defaming him.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

In a world where public trust in science already hangs in the balance, a system that is visibly strained and occasionally embarrassed gives bad-faith actors fresh ammunition.

From Slate • May 3, 2026

She says her husband is back to his normal "kind" self, but their relationship has been strained.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

May strained to see what he meant, then gasped.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley