add pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'add pressure' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe when something causes an increase of stress or difficulty. For example: "The tight deadline for the project added pressure to an already busy schedule".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Swifter tapering would add pressure on lending rates to rise.

The New York Times

But the latest allegations will add pressure for a full disclosure.

The Guardian

Place a plate on top of this and use the weight to add pressure.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I kept telling tem, 'Don't add pressure by figuring it all out.

The Washington Post

Speaking to the official Villa website regarding his fee, Bent said: "It definitely does add pressure.

Independent

"I don't know, I mean, does it add pressure?" Tinkle said.

The New York Times

The rising cost of newsprint was also expected to add pressure to the company's bottom line.

The New York Times

But the release of worse-than-expected earnings reports by G.M. and Ford may add pressure to act sooner.

The New York Times

But it would add pressure on Mr. Abe to resign or call a general election to seek a popular mandate.

The New York Times

On the other hand, said Ricardo Galán, a spokesman for Mr. Uribe, the indictments could add pressure on the paramilitaries.

The New York Times

That could add pressure on the government to tap Central Bank reserves or to severely devalue its exchange rate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "add pressure", consider whether the pressure is internal (psychological) or external (situational) to provide context. For example: "The deadline added pressure on the team" versus "He added pressure to himself by setting unrealistic goals."

Common error

Avoid using "add pressure" when referring to inanimate objects that cannot experience pressure in a psychological sense. For example, instead of saying "The heavy box added pressure to the shelf" say "The heavy box exerted a force on the shelf".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "add pressure" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action that increases stress, burden, or urgency. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

11%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "add pressure" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe increasing stress or difficulty in various situations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides numerous examples across news, wiki, and scientific contexts. While grammatically sound and very common, it's important to consider the appropriate context and avoid misattributing agency, ensuring clarity and precision in your writing. Related phrases like "increase stress" or "put a strain on" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the intended emphasis. Therefore, understanding its function and purpose allows for more effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increase stress

Focuses on the psychological impact by emphasizing the elevation of stress levels.

put a strain on

Emphasizes the damaging or weakening effect of added burden.

intensify the burden

Specifically refers to amplifying the weight or difficulty of an existing load.

heighten tension

Directly relates to escalating levels of conflict or anxiety in a situation.

exert influence

Highlights the application of power or authority to achieve a desired outcome.

place an onus on

Highlights the responsibility or duty that is imposed on someone or something.

aggravate the situation

Implies making an already problematic condition worse.

create urgency

Focuses on the aspect of time-sensitivity and the need for immediate action.

build momentum

Focuses on accelerating progress or force towards a specific direction.

force the issue

Implies pushing for a resolution or decision, potentially against resistance.

FAQs

How can I use "add pressure" in a sentence?

The phrase "add pressure" is used to describe situations where something increases stress or difficulty. For example, "The upcoming exam will "add pressure" to the students".

What's a synonym for "add pressure"?

Alternatives to "add pressure" include "increase stress", "put a strain on", or "create urgency", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "add pressure on" or "add pressure to"?

Both "add pressure on" and "add pressure to" can be correct depending on the context. "Add pressure on" is typically used when referring to a person or entity, while "add pressure to" can be used for abstract concepts. For example, "add pressure on the team" versus "add pressure to the negotiations".

What's the difference between "add pressure" and "apply pressure"?

"Add pressure" suggests an increase in existing stress or difficulty, whereas "apply pressure" implies a deliberate action to influence or control something. They are subtly different but often used interchangeably. One example could be, "The media can "add pressure" on public officials" versus "The police "apply pressure" to extract a confession."