tense; critical; urgent
Meanings
2 senses · 8 examplesadjective
tense; tight; strained
formalDescribes a situation, often economic or military, that is under pressure or strain.
The situation at the border has recently become tense.
Due to the financial crisis, the money market is tight.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
Right now is a busy time for farm work, and we're short of hands.
The war on the front lines is intense, making supply difficult.
adjective
important; critical; urgent
neutralDescribes matters or places that are of primary importance or require immediate attention.
Whether I go or not isn't critical, but if you don't go, it just won't get done.
Let's first repair the critical areas; we can deal with the rest later.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
In resource allocation, priority should be given to critical projects.
Now is the most critical moment for flood prevention; everyone must not relax.