exert pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

"exert pressure" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe when somebody applies mental or physical force in order to gain compliance from another person or group of people. For example: "The protesters set up a blockade to exert pressure on the government to pass the new regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The amount offered is intended to be sufficient to exert pressure on him to [p71] agree to the proposed regulation.

Cornell University

Tens of thousands of activists demonstrated to exert pressure on negotiators, and rightly so.

The Guardian - Opinion

We have to exert pressure gradually".

The Guardian

Between elections, citizens exert pressure to receive private benefits.

Harvard University

But it had other ways to exert pressure.

The New York Times

You'll be thinking about how to exert pressure.

The New York Times

Finding ways to exert pressure on the military is essential.

The Guardian - Opinion

Exert pressure from the center outward as you go.

The New York Times

Citizens continue to exert pressure for real reform.

The Washington Post

Then I used a small ziploc bag full of coins to exert pressure on the FSR.

University of California, Berkeley

I respect this Tribunal too highly to try to exert pressure upon it.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To convey a subtle or indirect influence, consider using alternatives like "apply influence" rather than "exert pressure".

Common error

Be mindful of the potential negative connotations associated with "exert pressure". In some contexts, it can imply coercion or undue influence. Choose a more neutral phrase if the intention is not to impose force.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "exert pressure" is as a verb phrase. It typically acts as the predicate of a sentence, describing the action of applying force or influence. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

22%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exert pressure" is a grammatically correct and widely used verb phrase that describes the act of applying force or influence to achieve a desired outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is employed across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and everyday conversation. While "exert pressure" is generally acceptable, it's important to be aware of its potential negative connotations. Alternative phrases, such as "apply pressure" or "bring influence to bear", may be more appropriate in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apply pressure

Direct synonym, focusing on the act of application rather than the type of force.

put pressure

Similar to "apply pressure", this alternative emphasizes the imposition of force.

bring pressure to bear

This alternative focuses on applying pressure to achieve a specific result.

bring influence to bear

More formal, suggesting a deliberate application of influence to achieve a specific outcome.

exercise influence

Focuses on the act of utilizing influence rather than directly applying force.

bring to bear

This implies making something have an effect or influence.

leverage influence

This phrase suggests using influence strategically to gain an advantage.

wield influence

Suggests a skillful and deliberate application of influence.

exert control

Switches the focus from pressure to direct control, implying a more forceful approach.

pressurize

A more direct and forceful alternative, implying the creation of a high-pressure environment.

FAQs

What does "exert pressure" mean?

"Exert pressure" means to apply force, influence, or persuasion to try to make someone do something.

How can I use "exert pressure" in a sentence?

You can use "exert pressure" to describe situations where someone is trying to influence someone else. For example: "The union is trying to "apply pressure" on the company to improve working conditions."

What are some alternatives to "exert pressure"?

Alternatives to "exert pressure" include "apply pressure", "put pressure", or "bring influence to bear", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to "exert pressure"?

While "exert pressure" is a common phrase, it's not always appropriate. Consider the ethical implications of trying to influence someone, especially if it involves coercion or unfair tactics. It's important to ensure that any pressure you exert is fair and justified.