mantenere la tensione
Il regista ha mantenuto la tensione per tutto il film.
The director kept the tension high throughout the film.
To sustain or prolong a state of suspense, excitement, or dramatic pressure in a narrative, performance, or situation.
Durante il discorso, il politico ha mantenuto la tensione con le sue parole ambigue.
During the speech, the politician kept the tension high with his ambiguous words.
Lo scrittore riesce a mantenere la tensione fino all'ultima pagina.
The writer manages to keep the tension high until the last page.
Commonly used in storytelling, filmmaking, public speaking, and competitive contexts (e.g., sports, debates).
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Contextual Usage
Use 'mantenere la tensione' when describing how a storyteller or performer deliberately keeps the audience engaged and eager to know what happens next. It’s not about physical tension but emotional or narrative suspense.
Gold Rule
Avoid Literal Translation
Do not translate this phrase word-for-word. Instead, focus on the figurative meaning of sustaining suspense or excitement.
Word Origin
The phrase combines 'mantenere' (to maintain) and 'tensione' (tension, from Latin 'tensio'). The idiomatic use emerged in theatrical and literary contexts in the 20th century, referring to the deliberate prolongation of suspense.
Usage Notes
Often used in contexts where suspense or dramatic effect is desired, such as in movies, books, or public speaking. Avoid using it for literal physical tension (e.g., muscle tension).