heavy pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

"heavy pressure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where someone or something is subject to intense strain or obligation. For example, "The heavy pressure of meeting their monthly sales goals was taking a toll on the employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Each player is under heavy pressure.

The New York Times - Sports

But role sharing puts heavy pressure on performers to differentiate.

The Guardian

UK government bonds are also coming under heavy pressure.

The Guardian - Business

He worries that today's teenagers are under heavy pressure.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But Mr. Schrempp is under particularly heavy pressure at DaimlerChrysler.

The New York Times

Under heavy pressure, Favre threw an ugly touchdown pass.

The New York Times

Mr. Putin is also under heavy pressure domestically.

The New York Times

All are subject to heavy pressure from poaching.

MIT Technology Review

He had come under heavy pressure from British politicians.

The New York Times

Heart attack symptoms include heavy pressure in the chest, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness.

Harvard University

And they are under heavy pressure from the west to show they are fighting Isis".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "heavy pressure", consider the specific context and choose the most appropriate synonym if a more nuanced meaning is desired. For example, "intense strain" might be better suited for physical situations, while "considerable stress" might fit emotional or psychological contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "heavy pressure" in contexts where the strain or obligation is minimal. Overusing strong language can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Choose language that accurately reflects the intensity of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heavy pressure" typically functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a preposition (e.g., "under heavy pressure"). It describes a state of being subjected to significant strain, obligation, or influence, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "heavy pressure" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe situations involving significant strain or obligation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase and is frequently found in news and media sources. While alternatives like "intense strain" or "considerable stress" exist, "heavy pressure" remains a versatile and widely understood expression. When writing, it's essential to ensure the intensity of the situation warrants the use of such strong language to maintain credibility and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intense strain

Focuses on the level of exertion or force applied.

significant burden

Emphasizes the weight or difficulty imposed.

considerable stress

Highlights the psychological or emotional impact.

substantial strain

Focuses on the amount of force that is exerted.

extreme duress

Emphasizes the severity and urgency of the situation.

immense obligation

Highlights the compelling moral or legal requirement.

powerful influence

Focuses on the capacity to affect someone or something.

severe encumbrance

Emphasizes the restrictive or hindering nature.

notable compulsion

Highlights the act of coercing or forcing someone.

marked coercion

Focuses on the act of compelling someone to do something against their will.

FAQs

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

You can use "heavy pressure" to describe situations involving significant strain or obligation, such as "The company was under "heavy pressure" to meet its quarterly earnings targets" or "The athlete felt "heavy pressure" before the final race".

What can I say instead of "heavy pressure"?

You can use alternatives like "intense strain", "significant burden", or "considerable stress" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "under a heavy pressure"?

While understandable, it's more common and grammatically sound to say "under heavy pressure" without the article "a". The phrase functions as a single unit, describing a state of being subject to intense strain or obligation.

What's the difference between "heavy pressure" and "high pressure"?

"Heavy pressure" typically refers to a sense of strain, obligation, or burden, while "high pressure" often describes a physical condition or intense situation. For example, you might be "under "heavy pressure"" at work, but a tire might have "high pressure".