Relations with shareholders are increasingly strained as the company's management has resisted demands for greater transparency.

Relations with its western allies have become increasingly strained over recent years.

Not free spirits, but condemned to live with their increasingly strained families until the age of 30 as they struggle with the country's worst downturn.

Here, their relationship becomes increasingly strained.

But our relationship became increasingly strained.

Add 2 tbsp of the strained liquid as the hollandaise becomes thicker, while whisking in all of the butter.

Next cook the potatoes in the strained liquid.

Whisk the slaked cornflour, vinegar and sugar into the strained liquid until smooth.

Add the cumin seeds and sauté for a few seconds, then add the puréed butternut squash, strained liquid and salt.

Pour strained liquid over fish to cover.

Mostly, we watched with a strained smile, willing it to come up with something properly shocking and unfairly cruel.

He looked concerned as he emerged from the hospital at 8.10pm, giving a strained smile to waiting wellwishers.

He gave me a strained smile.

So the old person - who still has reserve and dignity - recoils or gives a strained smile.

He offers a strained smile.