Word
tightening
Phoneticstight·en·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtaɪtənɪŋ/
UK/tˈaɪtənɪŋ/
Countable & uncountable
Definition
n. the act of making something more firm, closed, or strict. You might hear this when talking about rules or physical objects.
n. the process of making something more secure, restrictive, or less loose. Often refers to the implementation of stricter controls or the physical reduction of slack.
Examples
“The tightening of the screws made the chair stable.”
“The government announced a tightening of border controls to improve national security.”
“Economists predict that a further tightening of monetary policy will be necessary to curb rising inflation rates before the end of the fiscal year.”
Examples
simple
“The tightening of the screws made the chair stable.”
contextual
“The government announced a tightening of border controls to improve national security.”
complex
“Economists predict that a further tightening of monetary policy will be necessary to curb rising inflation rates before the end of the fiscal year.”
Usage
Often followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate what is being made stricter or firmer.
Real-World Examples
“With global supplies tightening, diesel prices have risen around the world — including in the US.” “However, past promises of tightening gun laws have not prevented recent shootings.” Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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