HomeDictionaryPpressure

Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.

pressure

[ˈpɹɛʃ.ə(ɹ)]

When used as a noun to describe physical force or stress, "pressure" is usually an uncountable noun (e.g., "too much pressure"). In the context of emotional stress, it is very common to use the preposition "under," as in "under pressure." As a verb, "pressure" is used actively to describe forcing someone's decision. It is more formal than saying "push someone" but less formal than "coerce."

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is hiding in the office breakroom to avoid their boss.
Jessica

David's asking about the mocks. Don't let him pressure you into a rush job.

Jessica
Sarah
Sarah

Too late. I'm already hitting a wall with these edits.

💡
Jessica is warning Sarah about their boss's tendency to force quick results (using 'pressure' as a verb). Sarah responds using the idiom 'hitting a wall', meaning she has reached a point of exhaustion where she can no longer make progress.

Meanings

noun

The continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by a fluid, gas, or solid.

"The deep-sea diver must withstand immense water pressure."

noun

The use of persuasion, influence, or intimidation to make someone do something.

"He succumbed to peer pressure and started smoking."

noun

A feeling of stress or urgency caused by the need to achieve something or deal with a difficult situation.

"She is under a lot of pressure at work to meet the deadline."

verb (transitive)

To attempt to force someone into doing something through persuasion or intimidation.

"The lobbyists tried to pressure the senator into voting against the bill."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error