1. To cause or produce a state of stress, strain, or emotional unease between people or in a situation
The disagreement between the two managers began to create tension in the workplace.
O desacordo entre os dois gerentes começou a criar tensão no local de trabalho.
2. To build suspense or dramatic intensity in a narrative, performance, or situation
The director used dramatic music to create tension in the film's climactic scene.
O diretor usou música dramática para criar tensão na cena climática do filme.
3. To generate physical or mechanical stress or strain
Pulling the rope too hard will create tension that may break it.
Puxar a corda com muita força criará tensão que pode quebrá-la.