C1verb1K

Tighten

UK /["/ˈtaɪtn/","/ˈtaɪtnz/","/ˈtaɪtnd/","/ˈtaɪtnɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈtaɪtn/","/ˈtaɪtnz/","/ˈtaɪtnd/","/ˈtaɪtnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to hold or fix something more securely in position; to make something or become more difficult to move, open or separate

In simple words: to make something less loose

Examples

  • Make sure to tighten the screws to secure the shelf properly.
  • They decided to tighten security measures after the incident.
  • She had to tighten her belt after losing her job.
  • The company plans to tighten its budget to avoid losses this year.
  • He tightened the ropes before the climbers started their ascent.
  • Governments often tighten regulations during economic downturns.
  • I needed to tighten the cap on the bottle to prevent leaks.

Usage notes

Use 'tighten' when discussing securing things, like screws or belts. It is more appropriate in practical settings than in abstract discussions.

Grammar pattern

tighten + object

Memory hint

Think of a belt getting 'tight' to hold your pants up.

Collocations

  • a little
  • slightly
  • etc.
  • seem to
  • feel something
  • make something
  • about
  • around
  • round

Synonyms

  • secure
  • fasten
  • fix
  • close

Antonyms

  • loosen
  • release

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'tighten' with 'loosen' (opposites)
  • Using 'tighten' with incorrect prepositions (e.g., saying 'tighten to' instead of 'tighten on')
  • Mixing 'tighten' with unrelated verbs in casual speech