crack under pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

'crack under pressure' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a situation in which someone is overwhelmed or stressed by a difficult or challenging situation, and is unable to handle it. For example, "John had been studying for the test for weeks, but he ended up cracking under the pressure when it came time to take it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

CRACK UNDER PRESSURE sprang into my head as soon as I read the clue, making me feel like a boss and theoretically assuring me a smooth solve.

The New York Times

But they can also crack under pressure.

The Guardian - Sport

"Folks tend to crack under pressure," Mr. Chambliss added.

The New York Times

"I definitely crack under pressure with tests, and the academics were too much to handle.

The New York Times

Four years ago Wales coach Warren Gatland questioned Hartley's temperament, asking whether he would "choke and crack under pressure".

Independent

With Carter out of the equation, England should target Cruden to see if he'll crack under pressure.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

She never cracks under pressure.

The Guardian - Sport

He never cracked under pressure.

The New York Times

The tourists cracked under pressure, ensuring Alec Stewart's Test career finished on a high.

Independent

He was the man who always made the key putt, who never cracked under pressure.

The New Yorker

Statham acts the hardnut hero quite serviceably, though it's horrible to watch Joan Allen's glacial warden cracking under pressure.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's reaction to stress, consider using "crack under pressure" to vividly illustrate their inability to handle the situation effectively.

Common error

While "crack under pressure" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in very informal settings. Opt for simpler expressions like "get stressed out" or "freak out" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "crack under pressure" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically acting as a verb phrase within a sentence. It describes a situation where someone fails or breaks down due to stress or pressure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "crack under pressure" is a common and correct way to describe someone's failure to perform well due to stress. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. As a versatile phrase, it finds its place across various contexts, from news reports to everyday conversations. While it's a vivid expression, remember to tailor your language to the formality of the situation, and feel free to explore alternative phrases like "succumb to the pressure" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

succumb to the pressure

Replaces "crack" with "succumb", emphasizing yielding to pressure.

break down under stress

Substitutes "crack" with "break down", focusing on the failure aspect under stressful conditions.

cave in to the demands

Emphasizes giving in to external demands or expectations.

lose composure

Highlights the loss of calmness and self-control.

fall apart under duress

Focuses on disintegration or collapse when facing hardship.

become overwhelmed

Highlights feeling overpowered and unable to cope.

show weakness under strain

Focuses on exhibiting vulnerability when subjected to intense pressure.

crumble under the load

Emphasizes the breaking down under a heavy burden.

yield to the tension

Focuses on surrendering or giving way to built-up tension.

be unable to cope

Highlights the inability to manage or deal with a difficult situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "crack under pressure" to describe someone who fails to perform well due to stress, for example: "He was a great student, but he "cracked under pressure" during the final exam".

What does it mean to "crack under pressure"?

To "crack under pressure" means to fail or break down in a stressful situation. It implies a loss of composure or the inability to perform effectively due to stress.

Which is correct: "crack under pressure" or "broke under pressure"?

"Crack under pressure" is the more idiomatic and common expression. While "broke under pressure" might be understood, it's less frequently used and can sound awkward.

What are some synonyms for "crack under pressure"?

Alternatives include "succumb to pressure", "lose composure", or "become overwhelmed", each subtly varying in meaning.