put the squeeze on

USAGE SUMMARY

"put the squeeze on" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to applying pressure on someone in order to get something out of them. For example, "They put the squeeze on me to get me to sign the contract."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Perpignan put the squeeze on again with a powerful drive which led to Cuthbert being harshly penalised for a late tackle and Hook popped over another penalty.

BBC

In fact, the one time that the US Treasury Department started to effectively put the squeeze on North Korea's finances, the senior leadership over there lost its cool.

Vice

Rising costs put the squeeze on builder confidence in April.

The New York Times

That will put the squeeze on consumer spending power.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's becoming sound political strategy to put the squeeze on global corporations.

The New Yorker

Grain shortages sent food prices soaring, and memorably, OPEC put the squeeze on oil.

The New York Times - Magazine

Under Lehmann they almost wear it as badge of honour to put the squeeze on opponents.

Independent

He added that the allies would "put the squeeze" on the Libyan dictator "until he's gone".

Independent

The farmer had filed complaints against people who had put the squeeze on him.

The Economist

To save his coalition, Mr Bush needs to put the squeeze on Mr Sharon.

The Economist

He said the allies would "put the squeeze" on the Libyan dictator "until he's gone".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put the squeeze on" when you want to convey the idea of applying pressure, often financial or political, to achieve a specific outcome. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts but avoid overuse in highly formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "put the squeeze on" when a milder term like "influence" or "encourage" is more appropriate. This phrase implies significant pressure and may be too strong for some situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put the squeeze on" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It signifies the act of applying pressure to someone or something, often to compel a certain action or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, showing its frequent usage in contemporary contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "put the squeeze on" is a common and versatile idiomatic phrase used to describe the act of applying pressure, often with the intent of influencing or compelling a specific action. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it should be used judiciously in highly formal writing where a more direct or less colorful alternative might be preferred. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively incorporate "put the squeeze on" into their vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put pressure on someone

This alternative is a less idiomatic and more literal phrasing.

pressure someone

A more direct and less colorful way of saying the same thing.

exert pressure on

Focuses on the act of applying pressure, removing the idiomatic feel.

bring pressure to bear on

A more formal and emphatic way of describing the application of pressure.

apply leverage to

Emphasizes the use of a strategic advantage to influence someone.

crack down on

Implies stricter measures and enforcement.

lean on

Suggests a more subtle form of pressure or influence.

coerce

Highlights the act of forcing someone against their will.

strong-arm

Suggests aggressive and forceful tactics.

bully

Emphasizes intimidation and harassment to get someone to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "put the squeeze on" in a sentence?

You can use "put the squeeze on" to describe applying pressure to someone or something. For instance, "The company tried to "put the squeeze on" its suppliers to lower prices."

What does it mean to "put the squeeze on" someone?

To ""put the squeeze on"" someone means to exert pressure on them, often to force them to do something they might not otherwise do.

What can I say instead of "put the squeeze on"?

You can use alternatives like "pressure someone", "exert pressure on", or "apply leverage to" depending on the context.

Is "put the squeeze on" appropriate for formal writing?

While ""put the squeeze on"" is widely understood, it might be too informal for highly formal or academic writing. Consider using a more neutral alternative like "bring pressure to bear on" in such contexts.