buckle under pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

"buckle under pressure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is forced to give in or accept adverse circumstances due to an intense external pressure. For example: "After months of litigation, the defendant finally buckled under pressure and agreed to a settlement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"Some people buckle under pressure.

The New York Times

But they can buckle under pressure.

The Guardian

Will they claw back road space, or buckle under pressure?

The Guardian

Why do some people and some companies buckle under pressure?

Harvard Business Review

The widespread assertion was García would eventually buckle under pressure.

The Guardian - Sport

Refusing to buckle under pressure from the defence lawyer.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

But in June 2012, just two days before the expiration date, Republicans buckled under pressure and extended the fixed rate for one year.

The New York Times

He would lose tremendous prestige if he buckles under pressure".

The New York Times

And our friends across Europe will have noted how easily she buckled under pressure.

The Guardian - Opinion

— Yet another pharmaceutical company is buckling under pressure from the Trump administration over drug prices.

The Washington Post

But he has been criticised for sometimes buckling under pressure from Iran's hardline religious establishment.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when choosing between "buckle under pressure" and similar phrases; each carries slightly different connotations that can affect the message's impact.

Common error

While versatile, "buckle under pressure" can sound overly dramatic in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "give in" or "cave" when discussing minor inconveniences.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic expression "buckle under pressure" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the act of yielding or collapsing in the face of significant stress or opposition. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

18%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "buckle under pressure" is a common and grammatically correct idiomatic expression used to describe the act of yielding or failing to withstand significant stress or opposition. According to Ludwig, it is usable in written English and appropriate for various contexts. While it appears frequently in news and media sources, it is also found in formal business documents and general-interest articles. Understanding its nuances and related phrases, such as ""cave in to pressure"" and ""succumb to pressure"", helps in effectively conveying the intended meaning in writing. While versatile, be aware that it can sound overly dramatic in everyday conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cave in to pressure

Focuses on yielding or surrendering to pressure, suggesting a lack of resistance.

succumb to pressure

Implies a yielding to pressure due to being overpowered or overwhelmed.

give way under pressure

Highlights the physical or metaphorical breaking point caused by pressure.

break down under pressure

Suggests a complete failure of mental or emotional fortitude due to stress.

yield to demands

Specifically indicates giving in to explicit requests or expectations.

lose resolve

Emphasizes the loss of determination or willpower in the face of challenges.

capitulate to stress

A more formal way of saying to give in to stress.

crack under the strain

Suggests a fracturing or breaking due to intense strain, either physical or emotional.

be unable to cope

Highlights an inability to manage or deal with difficult circumstances.

reach breaking point

Indicates reaching the limit of one's ability to endure pressure or stress.

FAQs

How can I use "buckle under pressure" in a sentence?

You can use "buckle under pressure" to describe a situation where someone or something is unable to withstand intense stress or opposition. For example: "The company "buckled under pressure" from the investors and changed its strategy."

What are some alternatives to "buckle under pressure"?

Some alternatives to "buckle under pressure" include "cave in to pressure", "succumb to pressure", or "give way under pressure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "buckle from pressure" instead of "buckle under pressure"?

While "buckle from pressure" might be understood, "buckle under pressure" is the more idiomatic and widely accepted phrasing.

What does it mean when someone doesn't "buckle under pressure"?

If someone doesn't "buckle under pressure", it means they remain strong and steadfast despite facing significant stress, opposition, or challenges.