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tense atmosphere

[TENS AT-məs-fir]
noun phrasepl: tense atmospheres
atmosfera tensa
1. An environment or setting characterized by stress, anxiety, or strained relationships; a feeling of unease or nervousness in a place or among people
The tense atmosphere in the boardroom made everyone uncomfortable.
A atmosfera tensa na sala de reuniões deixou todos desconfortáveis.
2. A situation where conflict or disagreement seems imminent or is being actively felt by those present
After the argument, a tense atmosphere lingered throughout the office.
Após a discussão, uma atmosfera tensa permaneceu por todo o escritório.
NYC Slang
thick vibes, heavy energy
Synonyms
strained atmospherecharged atmosphereuncomfortable settingawkward environmenttaut climate
Antonyms
relaxed atmospherepeaceful environmentcalm settingpleasant ambiancecomfortable atmosphere

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
atmosfera tensa
Most common and widely understood across Brazil
São Paulo
clima tenso
Informal alternative, commonly used in everyday speech
Rio de Janeiro
ambiente pesado
Colloquial variant meaning heavy/heavy-feeling environment
Portugal
atmosfera carregada
More commonly used; literally 'charged/heavy atmosphere'

Related Idioms & Phrases

cut the tension with a knife
you could cut it with a knife
the air was thick with tension
bad vibes
walking on eggshells
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