under pressure

Meaning

This phrase describes a state of being stressed, rushed, or facing strong demands to perform well under difficult conditions. In a professional environment, it often refers to tight deadlines, high-stakes projects, or demanding workloads. It can be used to show capability under stress or to describe a difficult work atmosphere.

Examples

• Our team is currently under pressure to finish the project before the Friday deadline.

  Our team is currently under pressure to finish the project before the Friday deadline.

• She has a remarkable ability to stay calm and focused even when she is under pressure.

  She has a remarkable ability to stay calm and focused even when she is under pressure.

• Working under pressure is a common requirement for high-level management positions.

  Working under pressure is a common requirement for high-level management positions.

• The sales department is under pressure to meet their quarterly targets.

  The sales department is under pressure to meet their quarterly targets.

• I don't make my best decisions when I am feeling under pressure.

  I don't make my best decisions when I am feeling under pressure.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ He works very well below pressure.

  ✓ He works very well under pressure.

  The correct preposition is 'under,' indicating the weight or force of the demands acting on you.

• ✗ I am in pressure because of the upcoming audit.

  ✓ I am under pressure because of the upcoming audit.

  'In pressure' is incorrect; English speakers always use the preposition 'under' with 'pressure' in this context.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The developers are ___ to fix the software bug before the product launch tomorrow.

  💡 Facing intense stress or demands.

  Show answer

  under pressure

• Can you handle working ___ when there are multiple urgent tasks?

  💡 In a highly stressful work environment.

  Show answer

  under pressure