building tension
[ˈbɪldɪŋ ˈtenʃən]
noun/verb phrase
construção de tensão / aumento de tensão
1. the gradual increase in suspense, anxiety, or dramatic intensity in a narrative, performance, or situation
The director excels at building tension throughout the film, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
O diretor é excelente em construir tensão ao longo do filme, mantendo a audiência à beira do assento.
2. the deliberate creation of stress or conflict in interpersonal relationships or situations
The argument continued, building tension between the two colleagues.
A discussão continuou, aumentando a tensão entre os dois colegas.
3. in music and narrative arts, the progressive accumulation of elements that create emotional intensity
Building tension is crucial in horror movies through sound design and cinematography.
A construção de tensão é crucial em filmes de horror através do design sonoro e cinematografia.
In Brazilian cinema and storytelling, 'construção de tensão' is a widely recognized term in the entertainment industry. American audiences often discuss this in relation to thriller and horror genres. The phrase is technical in film criticism but increasingly common in casual entertainment discussions across both cultures.
NYC Slang
ramping up the drama / cranking up the heat
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →