held up under pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "held up under pressure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that remains strong or effective despite challenging circumstances or stress. Example: "The athlete held up under pressure during the final moments of the game, leading the team to victory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"That my technique held up under pressure shows all the hard work I've put in with him".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Landry Jones has to show that his game can hold up under pressure.

The New York Times

But he said he was confident that his employees would hold up under pressure.

The New York Times

If George Ford's goal‑kicking holds up under pressure, they look strong.

The Guardian - Sport

The banks are being put through a battery of tests to see whether they will hold up under pressure under the worst-case economic situations over the next two years.

The New York Times

Afterward, García said he was confident that his new swing, aimed at making him more consistent, would hold up under pressure.

The New York Times - Sports

Large banks are being put through a battery of tests to see whether they will hold up under pressure in the worst-case economic assumptions over the next two years.

The New York Times

Analysts will be keeping a close eye on the site on Saturday to see how it holds up under pressure, which could amount to hundreds of thousands of visitors a minute.

The Guardian - Books

But a victory for García in a World Golf Championships event, in a field that includes 48 of the top 50 players in the world ranking, would be the best indication that his new swing was holding up under pressure.

The New York Times - Sports

But while doling out the money, Mr. Thurmond sometimes asked how she felt about having to keep their relationship secret and how she was holding up under pressure from reporters who had gotten wind of the truth.

The New York Times

We suffered against France because the scrum didn't hold up under pressure.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system or structure, use "held up under pressure" to illustrate its ability to maintain integrity despite significant external forces or stress. For example, 'The bridge design held up under pressure from heavy traffic and severe weather.'

Common error

Avoid applying "held up under pressure" to abstract concepts or inanimate subjects in contexts where physical endurance is implied, as it might sound awkward. Instead, choose alternatives like "withstood scrutiny" or "remained valid".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "held up under pressure" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the ability to endure or withstand challenging conditions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. The phrase often describes a subject's resilience when facing external forces.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

20%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "held up under pressure" is a versatile verbal phrase used to describe something or someone that has successfully endured or withstood challenging conditions. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts. Its primary function is to convey resilience and the ability to maintain integrity despite strain. It's most frequently found in news and media, but also appears in scientific and general discussions. When writing, be mindful of the subject you are describing, ensuring that the use of the phrase is appropriate and contextually relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

withstood the pressure

Focuses on resistance and endurance against force or strain.

remained resilient under stress

Highlights the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

coped effectively with the demands

Emphasizes skillful management and adaptation to challenges.

maintained composure despite challenges

Focuses on emotional stability and self-control in adverse situations.

performed consistently in adversity

Stresses steady performance even when faced with obstacles.

rose to the occasion under duress

Implies surpassing expectations when confronted with hardship.

navigated difficulties successfully

Highlights the skill of maneuvering through complex problems.

weathered the storm

Uses a metaphor to describe surviving a period of intense difficulty.

stood firm in the face of adversity

Emphasizes unwavering resolve and steadfastness when facing opposition.

held steady amidst turbulence

Highlights stability and balance during times of disruption.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as having "held up under pressure"?

It means that something or someone has remained strong, effective, or successful despite facing challenging circumstances, stress, or scrutiny. It suggests resilience and the ability to maintain integrity even when tested.

How can I use the phrase "held up under pressure" in a sentence?

You can say, "The athlete "withstood the pressure" during the final moments of the competition" or "The building design "remained stable" and held up under pressure from the earthquake."

What are some alternatives to saying "held up under pressure"?

Alternatives include "withstood the pressure", "remained resilient under stress", "coped effectively with the demands", or "stood the test of time", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "hold up under pressure" instead of "held up under pressure"?

"Hold up under pressure" is the infinitive form of the verb phrase, while "held up under pressure" is the past tense. Use "held up" when referring to something that has already occurred or been tested. For example, "The structure "held up under pressure" during the storm."