Nerve-wracking

Nerve-wracking describes a situation, event, or experience that causes a great deal of anxiety, stress, and tension. It often involves uncertainty, high stakes, or the potential for negative consequences, leading to feelings of unease, apprehension, and frayed nerves. The intensity of these feelings can vary, ranging from mild discomfort to overwhelming panic. Situations that are nerve-wracking typically challenge a person's emotional and mental resilience, often demanding focus and composure under pressure. It's a descriptor for anything that significantly tests one's ability to remain calm and collected.

Nerve-wracking meaning with examples

• The championship game was truly nerve-wracking. Every point was fiercely contested, and the lead changed hands multiple times. The crowd's roar, the pressure to perform, and the fear of making a mistake all contributed to a constant state of high alert, making it difficult to breathe and think clearly for everyone on the field.
• Waiting for the results of the medical tests was a nerve-wracking experience for the entire family. The uncertainty about the diagnosis created a palpable tension in the waiting room. Each passing minute seemed to drag on, filled with nervous anticipation and the quiet hope for positive news from the doctor.
• Preparing for the final presentation to the board of directors proved to be incredibly nerve-wracking. The weight of the company's future rested on its success, creating a sense of immense responsibility. The need to impress stakeholders and deliver a flawless performance kept her up nights, meticulously rehearsing every word.
• Walking through the darkened forest alone, hearing every rustle in the leaves, created a nerve-wracking scenario. The feeling of vulnerability and the fear of the unknown, combined with the silence of the night, kept your senses on high alert, making every shadow seem menacing.