working under pressure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "working under pressure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation or circumstance when you or somebody else has to complete a task or job quickly and efficiently, possibly with a looming deadline. For example: "I'm working under pressure to finish this report before the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

We are working under pressure.

The Guardian

"Yes, they will be working under pressure," she says.

The Guardian

I enjoy intensive courses as I like working under pressure, but they aren't for everybody.

The Guardian

Some package-dyeing machines are capable of working under pressure at temperatures up to 130 °C.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And then, so I am working under pressure, but that doesn't bother me, I pretend it is not there.

Stanford University

I would say nine out of 10 applicants use their university exams as examples of working under pressure.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Then, there will be a job opening starting immediately at $4.25 an hour for a: "... committed, motivated and energetic individual, who is able to work under-pressure and enjoys working flexible hours".

Huffington Post

Supervisors are often working under pressures that we can't anticipate.

Forbes

Professionalism is also paramount, having a compassionate nature towards patients, being hard-working and having the ability to work under pressure.

Nature

Ability to work under pressure essential.

The Guardian - Sport

"We know how to work under pressure," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing your ability to "work under pressure" in a resume or cover letter, provide specific examples of situations where you successfully navigated challenging deadlines or high-stress environments. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate the positive impact of your skills.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the phrase "working under pressure", especially when describing common job duties. Instead, focus on showcasing specific skills and achievements relevant to the role, and let those achievements imply your ability to handle pressure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working under pressure" functions as a prepositional phrase typically used adjectivally or adverbially. It modifies a noun or verb, describing the circumstances or conditions under which someone is performing a task. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent and correct use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "working under pressure" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, that describes a state of being where tasks are performed under demanding conditions. It's prevalent across various domains, including news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, it's crucial to provide specific examples and avoid overuse. Alternatives such as "operating under tight deadlines" or "managing urgent tasks" can offer nuance and prevent repetition. Remember to balance highlighting your ability to handle pressure with demonstrating proactive workload management and a commitment to well-being.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

working in a high-stress environment

Focuses on the environment as the source of pressure, rather than the pressure itself.

operating under tight deadlines

Emphasizes the constraint of time as the primary source of pressure.

performing in a time-sensitive role

Highlights the importance of speed and efficiency in the job.

handling urgent tasks

Focuses on the immediate and critical nature of the work being done.

managing high-stakes projects

Highlights the importance of the project's outcome and the associated stress.

undergoing a trial by fire

Implies a challenging and intense learning experience under duress.

navigating demanding situations

Focuses on the difficulty and complexity of the circumstances.

laboring intensely

Emphasizes the sheer effort being exerted, rather than the pressure itself.

functioning effectively amidst chaos

Highlights the ability to maintain performance despite disorder.

racing against the clock

Focuses on the element of time and the need to hurry.

FAQs

How can I demonstrate my ability to "work under pressure" in an interview?

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe specific instances where you successfully navigated stressful situations. Highlight the actions you took to manage the pressure and the positive outcomes you achieved.

What skills are essential for "working under pressure" effectively?

Key skills include time management, prioritization, problem-solving, adaptability, and clear communication. Demonstrating proficiency in these areas will enhance your ability to handle stressful situations productively.

What are some alternative phrases for "working under pressure" that I can use in my resume?

Consider using alternatives like "operating under tight deadlines", "managing urgent tasks", or "performing in a time-sensitive role", depending on the specific context.

Is "working under pressure" always a positive attribute?

While the ability to handle pressure is generally valued, it's important to also demonstrate that you can proactively manage your workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Excessive or constant pressure can lead to burnout, so it's crucial to show that you can prioritize well-being alongside productivity.