'tense' or 'tensed'

[Liza]

Hi,

In the dictionary I can find only: I'm tense.
However, I usually use it like: I'm tensed.'
Is it also correct? Or just the first one.

Thanks
Liza

[Yankee]

Hi Liza

You should stick with "I'm tense." The word tense is an adjective and it basically means that you are nervous. It is connected with mental tension, and it is not something that would normally be voluntary.

Using 'tensed' would suggest that you have voluntarily flexed your muscles in preparation for something.
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Amy
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ESL teacher, and native speaker of American English