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The term that describes a stretching or tearing of tendons is strain. A strain specifically refers to an injury to a muscle or tendon, which occurs when they are stretched beyond their normal limits. This can happen from overuse, improper use, or a sudden force.

Understanding the difference between related terms is essential, as they refer to distinct types of injuries. For instance, tendinitis refers to inflammation of a tendon, usually due to repetitive strain or overuse, rather than a direct stretching or tearing injury. A sprain involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments, which connect bones to other bones, not tendons. Dislocation, on the other hand, refers to a joint problem where bones are displaced from their normal position and does not directly relate to tendon injuries.

Thus, a strain is the accurate term for a stretching or tearing of tendons, distinguishing it from the other terms associated with similar but different types of injuries.