Under pressure
Meaning
Experiencing a situation where one feels compelled to perform or make decisions due to high expectations or difficult circumstances.
Origin
While the concept of physical pressure has existed since ancient times, the idiomatic phrase 'under pressure' as we understand it—referring to psychological stress or demanding circumstances—is a product of the modern era. As industrialization intensified in the 19th and 20th centuries, societal expectations for productivity and performance soared. The literal sensation of being 'pressed' or 'squeezed' by external forces found a potent metaphorical parallel in the human experience of stress from deadlines, competition, and complex decision-making. This direct transfer from the world of physics to the realm of human emotion solidified 'under pressure' as a universal shorthand for the intense demands of contemporary life, capturing the feeling of being burdened by external weight.
Examples
- The CEO has been under pressure to deliver better financial results after the company's recent losses.
- Students often feel under pressure during exam season to achieve high grades.