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general::
Phrase(s): place a strain on someone or something
1. Lit. to burden and nearly overwhelm someone or something. • The weight of all the trucks placed a strain on the bridge. 2. Fig. to tax the resources or strength of someone, a group, or something to the utmost. • All of the trouble at work placed a strain on Kelly. • The recession placed a strain on the economy.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs