ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pressures

n. C / U
B1 Intermediate US //ˈpɹɛʃɝz// UK //pɹˈɛʃəz// pres·sures

n. the difficult feelings or demands you face when you have too much to do or deal with. You often feel these when work, school, or family life becomes very busy.

n. the continuous physical or mental stress resulting from demanding circumstances or expectations. Often used in the plural to describe the cumulative effect of multiple external requirements.


SIMPLE

The pressures of work are making him feel very tired.

CONTEXTUAL

Many students struggle with the pressures of final exams and the need to find a job simultaneously.

COMPLEX

Economic pressures often force small business owners to prioritize immediate survival over long-term sustainability, leading to a cycle of reactive decision-making.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly used in the plural when referring to social or professional demands; the singular form often refers to physical force.

Pitfall

the pressure of the exams are highthe pressures of the exams are highWhen referring to multiple different sources of stress or demands, the plural form 'pressures' is required for subject-verb agreement.

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