strain relations

[/streɪn rɪˈleɪʃənz/]
verb phrase
prejudicar as relações; tensionar as relações
1. To damage or weaken the relationship between people, groups, or countries; to create tension or difficulty in a relationship
The new trade policy will strain relations between the two nations.
A nova política comercial vai prejudicar as relações entre as duas nações.
2. To put pressure on or stress an existing relationship, making it more difficult to maintain
His infidelity strained relations with his family.
Sua infidelidade prejudicou as relações com sua família.
This phrase is commonly used in diplomatic, political, and social contexts in both Brazil and the USA. In Brazilian media and official discourse, it frequently appears when discussing international relations, political conflicts, or interpersonal disputes. It is a formal expression often found in news reports and official statements.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
damage relationsharm relationsdeteriorate relationsweaken tiescreate tension
Antonyms / Antônimos
improve relationsstrengthen relationsfoster relationsenhance ties

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
prejudicar as relações; tensionar as relações; afetar as relações
Most commonly used phrase in formal and informal contexts
Rio de Janeiro
estragar as relações; prejudicar o relacionamento
Slightly more casual usage
São Paulo
prejudicar as relações; desgastar as relações
More formal, business-oriented usage
Portugal
prejudicar as relações; tensionar as relações; danificar as relações
Similar to Brazilian Portuguese but with slight vocabulary variations

Related Words

diplomatic tensionrelationship breakdowninterpersonal conflictestrangementdiscordfriction

Related Idioms & Phrases

put a strain on relations
create friction between
rock the boat
cause bad blood between
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