applies pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applies pressure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is exerting force or influence on someone or something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The coach applies pressure on the players to perform at their best during the championship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The effects change depending on where and how he applies pressure with the squeegee.

The New York Times - Magazine

It comes as the music industry applies pressure on students and colleges in its antipiracy campaign.

The New York Times

It also means that the sensors draw no power unless someone applies pressure.

MIT Technology Review

His features remain deceptively mild, as does his voice, which applies pressure with the quiet relentlessness of an underwater current.

The New Yorker

It is time for them to outline a new course that applies pressure on public spending across the board.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The idea of a group viewing applies pressure to what is, in my opinion, an already stressful situation.

The Guardian - Money

A defensive line usually applies pressure within three seconds after the snap -- perhaps faster if it blitzes.

The New York Times - Sports

He applies pressure to the stick and makes a sharp evasive maneuver, away from the line of fire.

The New York Times - Science

SeeClickFix, which is based in New Haven, Connecticut, is open, public, and applies pressure to get the most pressing jobs done.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Then he applied pressure.

The New York Times

Congress also applied pressure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "applies pressure", ensure the context clearly indicates the source, target, and method of pressure being applied. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "applies pressure" without specifying what kind of pressure or the specific context. For example, instead of saying "The situation applies pressure", specify "The deadline applies pressure on the team to complete the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applies pressure" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where 'applies' is the verb and 'pressure' is the direct object. It describes the act of exerting force or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

29%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "applies pressure" is a versatile and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe the act of exerting force or influence, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It is very common across various contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While clear in its meaning, specifying the type and target of the pressure enhances its effectiveness. Common synonyms include "exerts influence" and "brings pressure to bear on". Its prevalence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and Forbes underscores its reliability and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

applies force

This alternative is more literal, referencing a physical application of force rather than an abstract one.

brings pressure to bear on

It emphasizes the act of directing force or influence toward a specific target.

exercises leverage

It highlights the strategic use of influence or resources to achieve a specific objective, emphasizing calculated action.

exerts influence

Focuses on the intangible aspect of affecting something, shifting from physical force to persuasive power.

leverages influence

Highlights the strategic use of power or authority to achieve a particular goal, making it about intentional advantage.

brings to bear

Implies leveraging resources or factors to achieve a desired outcome, changing the emphasis from direct application to strategic advantage.

asserts control

Emphasizes establishing dominance or authority, moving away from specific application to a general state of power.

puts the squeeze on

Suggests a tightening or constricting effect, often in a financial or competitive context, adding a sense of urgency and constraint.

imposes upon

Indicates enforcing something, like a rule or burden, differing by focusing on the involuntary reception of the pressure.

creates urgency

Focuses on instilling a sense of immediate need or action, differing by highlighting the resulting feeling rather than the direct action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "applies pressure" in a formal context?

In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "exerts influence", "brings pressure to bear on", or "exercises leverage" for a more sophisticated tone.

What is a less formal way to say "applies pressure"?

For less formal situations, you might use phrases such as "puts the squeeze on" or "cranks up the pressure" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "applies pressure" and "applies force"?

"Applies pressure" often refers to exerting influence or stress, while "applies force" typically indicates physical action. The choice depends on whether the context is literal or figurative.

How to use "applies pressure" in a sentence?

You can use "applies pressure" to describe how someone or something exerts influence or stress, such as "The company "applies pressure" on its suppliers to reduce costs" or "The coach "applies pressure" to the players to improve performance".