collapse under pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "collapse under pressure" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where someone or something fails or crumbles under the weight of intense stress or pressure. Example: "Despite their strong start, the team collapsed under the pressure of the championship game and ended up losing in the final minutes." In this example, the team was unable to handle the stress and demands of the high-pressure game, leading to their eventual defeat.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Group dynamics can collapse under pressure.

The New York Times - Sports

They had fled Manila on Tuesday as Mr. Marcos's rule began to collapse under pressure from military forces loyal to Corazon C. Aquino.

The New York Times

Curtis and Micheel cannot be called great players yet, but they were good enough to win majors, and bold enough not to collapse under pressure.

The New York Times - Sports

"Thank god the grown-ups at the IOC made this decision and didn't collapse under pressure from the newspapers and everyone else," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

In terms of function, Mr. Palazzi said he prefers carts with fixed shelves because he has seen adjustable ones collapse under pressure.

The New York Times

Families collapse under pressure from unpaid bills, as angry workless parents or adult children at home grow more depressed and unemployable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It was the other team that had the reputation of collapsing under pressure.

The Guardian - Sport

The international tin cartel collapsed under pressure from new Brazilian mines.

The New York Times

WorldCom tried to buy Sprint in 1999, but the deal collapsed under pressure from antitrust regulators.

The New York Times

My shoulders collapsed under pressure equal to four times the pull of gravity.

The New York Times

It seems at least plausible that any kicker who collapses under pressure would have been weeded out long before he ever got to the National Football League.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "collapse under pressure", consider the specific type of pressure involved. Be precise in describing the source of the pressure to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "collapse under pressure" in overly casual or informal situations. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it often carries a sense of gravity that might be disproportionate to everyday stressors. Opt for lighter expressions when describing minor setbacks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "collapse under pressure" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a state of failure or disintegration resulting from external forces. This phrase describes the action of something yielding or breaking due to overwhelming stress. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and acceptable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "collapse under pressure" is a grammatically correct and widely understood expression used to describe situations where something fails due to overwhelming stress or external forces. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers examples across various contexts. Although its usage is relatively uncommon, it's appropriate for both neutral and formal writing, particularly in news and analytical contexts. Alternative phrases like ""succumb to pressure"" or ""break down under strain"" can provide subtle variations in meaning. When using this phrase, ensure that the source and nature of the pressure are clearly defined for maximum impact and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

succumb to pressure

Focuses on yielding or giving in to pressure, implying a lack of resistance.

break down under strain

Highlights the process of disintegration or failure due to prolonged stress.

crumble under duress

Emphasizes the coercive or forceful nature of the pressure.

give way to stress

Suggests a yielding or submission to the effects of stress, often implying a loss of structural integrity.

buckle under the weight

Uses a metaphor of physical weight to describe the burden causing the failure.

deteriorate due to stress

Focuses on the gradual decline or degradation caused by stress over time.

fail due to exertion

Highlights the effort or strain as the cause of failure, suitable for physical or mental contexts.

lose composure in crisis

Refers specifically to a loss of emotional control or stability during a critical situation.

fall apart when challenged

Suggests a lack of resilience or robustness when faced with difficulties.

reach breaking point

Indicates that a limit has been reached, resulting in failure or inability to cope.

FAQs

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

You can use "collapse under pressure" to describe situations where something or someone fails due to overwhelming stress or strain. For example, "The negotiations "collapsed under pressure" from international sanctions."

What are some alternatives to "collapse under pressure"?

Alternatives include "succumb to pressure", "break down under strain", or "crumble under duress". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "collapsed under pressure" or "failed under pressure"?

"Collapsed under pressure" often implies a more sudden or dramatic failure, whereas "failed under pressure" can suggest a more gradual decline or inability to meet expectations. The choice depends on the specific scenario you're describing.

What does it mean when someone "collapses under pressure" in a sports context?

In sports, "collapsing under pressure" typically means a team or player fails to perform effectively during crucial moments due to the stress and intensity of the situation. They might make errors, lose focus, or be unable to execute their strategies.