spanning
tension, suspense, excitement
Intermediate Noun common
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Pronunciation
/ˈspɑ.nɪŋ/
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Cultural Note
Spanning covers both emotional tension and physical voltage (electrical). The expression 'de spanning was om te snijden' (the tension was thick enough to cut) is one of the most common Dutch idioms. 'Spannend' (exciting/tense) is used constantly, especially by children and in casual conversation.
📝 Example Sentences
De spanning was om te snijden.
The tension was palpable. (You could cut the tension with a knife.)
Ik kan de spanning niet meer aan!
I can't handle the suspense anymore!
Er hing een ongemakkelijke spanning tussen hen.
There was an uncomfortable tension between them.