Strained

I have a strained back.

I strained to hear what the President said.

The atmosphere became strained when he came.

His weight strained the rope.

He strained every nerve to see in the darkness.

He sang with his voice strained.

He strained his eyes by reading too much.

The atmosphere can become rather strained.

Relations between the two countries have been strained to breaking point.

Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.