Tightening one's belt is the reality many families face when prices soar.

The phrase 'tightened one's belt' appeared in the letter when she described how she had to live more frugally.

She wrapped the bandage tighteningly around his wrist to stop the bleeding.

If thou tightenest the ropes at dawn, the sails will hold against the storm.

When a sailor's knot slackens, the steady mariner tighteneth it before the storm.