B2verblawhome
US/ˈtaɪ.tən/
UK/ˈtaɪ.tən/
to make something tighter or firmer; to make rules stricter
In context
Tighten the screws on the chair before anyone sits on it.
The city plans to tighten rules on drink-driving during Tet.
He tightened his belt after losing a few kilos.
Words that go with tighten
verb + noun
- tighten securityAirports tightened security after the incident.
- tighten their beltsWith prices rising, many families have to tighten their belts.
- tighten rulesSchools have tightened rules on phone use.
- tighten controlThe bank wants to tighten control over online payments.
verb + adverb
- tighten upThe coach told the defenders to tighten up.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
/ˈtaɪt.ən/ with a clear 't' before 'en'Correct: /ˈtaɪ.tən/