apply the squeeze on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply the squeeze on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where pressure or constraints are being imposed on someone or something, often in a figurative sense. Example: "The management decided to apply the squeeze on expenses to improve the company's financial situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Guy Noves's Toulouse can always switch on the backline razzle but to watch les rouges et noirs and Biarritz apply the squeeze on Leinster and Munster in their respective semi-finals was to appreciate classically‑applied, dynamic forward power of the highest order.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

England are applying the squeeze now.

BBC

This option is essential for applying the SQUEEZE option in PLATON to twinned structures, but also has other uses.

Acta crystallographica. Section C, Structural chemistry

Though the first such deals were made after Proposition 13 applied the money squeeze on public schools in 1978, the Los Angeles district began pursuing the strategy only last year as enrollment projections showed that the district would gain more than 50,000 students by 1990.

Los Angeles Times

As you apply the product, squeeze your hair gently to help lift up the curls.

WikiHow

Putting the squeeze on superconductivity.

Cornell University

So has the squeeze on fossil fuels.

The Economist

That intensifies the squeeze on traditional clubs.

The Economist

The squeeze on those middlemen has begun.

The Economist

"That starts putting the squeeze on them".

The New York Times

The squeeze on families is substantial.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apply the squeeze on", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is being subjected to pressure. The phrase often implies a deliberate action to constrain or influence.

Common error

Avoid using "apply the squeeze on" when the pressure is unintentional or a natural consequence of events. The phrase suggests a purposeful application of constraints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply the squeeze on" functions as a verb phrase, typically used transitively. It describes the act of exerting pressure or constraints on someone or something. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is used to indicate a deliberate action to influence or control.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apply the squeeze on" is a verb phrase that signifies exerting pressure or constraints. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and usable in English, typically implying a deliberate action. While not extremely common, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. Alternatives include "put pressure on" or "exert pressure on", depending on the desired level of formality. When employing the phrase, clarity regarding who or what is being pressured is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put the squeeze on

This phrase is very close in meaning to the original, simply omitting the verb "apply".

exert pressure on

This alternative is a more formal and direct way of saying essentially the same thing.

put pressure on

This is a very common and versatile alternative, slightly less formal than 'exert pressure'.

tighten the screws on

This idiom suggests increasing pressure, often to enforce compliance.

put the heat on

This idiom implies increased scrutiny or enforcement, often in a negative context.

bring the hammer down on

This suggests a forceful application of rules or punishment.

crack down on

This phrase indicates stricter enforcement of laws or regulations.

clamp down on

Indicates strict enforcement or suppression.

lean on

This suggests applying influence or persuasion, often subtly.

bring to bear on

This alternative suggests the application of influence or resources.

FAQs

What does "apply the squeeze on" mean?

It means to exert pressure or constraint on someone or something, often to achieve a specific outcome. Similar phrases include "put pressure on" or "tighten the screws on".

How can I use "apply the squeeze on" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe actions where someone intentionally puts pressure on another entity, like "The government decided to apply the squeeze on the company by increasing taxes".

Is there a more formal alternative to "apply the squeeze on"?

Yes, you could use "exert pressure on". This alternative is more suitable for formal or professional contexts.

What is the difference between "apply the squeeze on" and "put the squeeze on"?

The two phrases are very similar in meaning and usage. "Apply the squeeze on" explicitly includes the action of applying, while "put the squeeze on" is a more common and concise way of saying the same thing.