Collocations for "tighten"
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word "tighten" in context.
WordReference English Collocations © 2025
tighten
ⓘMost examples are given in US English. We have labeled exceptions as UK.v
- tighten (up) the [bolt, knot]
- tighten the [bolt] (up)
- tighten down the [bolt]
- tighten the [regulations, budget, security]
- tighten [controls, the regulations, the rules] on [spending, taxation]
- tighten [controls] at [work, school]
- tighten security for [the event, the president]
- tightened his arms around her
- tightened her [grip, fists]
- his [chest, muscles, arms] tightened
- tighten the purse strings
- tightened into [place, position]
- tighten by hand
'tighten' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):