Definition

Noun: - A state of mental tension, anxiety, or worry resulting from psychological pressure or demanding circumstances. It refers to the stress or burden placed on one's mental and emotional resources.

Usage

This term is used to describe the psychological and emotional toll of sustained mental effort, worry, or pressure. It often implies a feeling of being overwhelmed by responsibilities or stressful situations.

Examples

• The nervous strain of preparing for the final exams left her feeling exhausted.
• He experienced considerable nervous strain while managing the high-stakes project.
• Years of nervous strain from the demanding job began to affect his health.

Advanced Usage

• Under nervous strain: Experiencing mental stress or pressure.
  • She has been under considerable nervous strain since the incident.
• To cause/induce nervous strain: To be the source of mental stress.
  • The constant uncertainty of the market can cause significant nervous strain for investors.

Variants and Related Words

• Strain (n.): A general state of excessive demand on strength, resources, or abilities. While "nervous strain" is specifically psychological, "strain" can also be physical.
  • The physical strain of lifting heavy boxes.
• Stress (n.): A similar concept, often used interchangeably, though "stress" can be a broader term encompassing both cause and effect.
  • Work-related stress.
• Tension (n.): Mental or emotional strain, often creating a feeling of tightness or unease.
  • You could feel the tension in the room.

Synonyms

• Mental stress
• Psychological pressure
• Anxiety
• Tension
• Worry

Antonyms

• Relaxation
• Calm
• Peace of mind
• Serenity
• Ease

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To be at breaking point: To be under so much strain that one can barely cope.
  • The constant nervous strain from his duties brought him to his breaking point.
• To be on edge: To be nervous, anxious, or irritable.
  • The nervous strain of waiting for the news had everyone on edge.

Noun

1. (psychology) nervousness resulting from mental stress
   • his responsibilities were a constant strain
   • the mental strain of staying alert hour after hour was too much for him