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Pressured Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pressured

[ˈprɛʃərd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

emotional state

Pressured refers to the feeling of being forced or influenced to act in a certain way, often resulting in stress or anxiety. It can describe a situation where expectations from others lead to a sense of urgency or obligation.

Synonyms

anxious, coerced, strained, stressed.

Examples of usage

  • She felt pressured to finish the project ahead of the deadline.
  • He was under pressure from his boss to increase sales.
  • Students often feel pressured to get perfect grades.
  • The team experienced a pressured environment during the competition.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Experiencing pressure can trigger the body's 'fight or flight' response, making people feel anxious or overwhelmed.
  • Research shows that chronic pressure might lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
  • Some people perform better under pressure, as it can lead to increased focus and motivation.

Education

  • Students often feel pressured to achieve high grades, which can affect their overall well-being and attitude towards learning.
  • The pressure to excel can come from parents, peers, or societal expectations, and it varies by culture.
  • Group projects in school can sometimes create pressure, as members may worry about their contributions and the group's performance.

Workplace

  • In many jobs, employees face deadlines, which can create significant pressure to perform efficiently.
  • Pressure can sometimes lead to burnout, making it essential for workplaces to recognize and address employee stress.
  • Certain industries, like finance or emergency services, often cultivate a high-pressure environment where quick decision-making is critical.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and TV shows often depict characters facing monumental pressure to succeed, from sports to academics, highlighting the tension between personal desires and societal expectations.
  • Songs like 'Under Pressure' by Queen and David Bowie capture the essence of feeling overwhelmed by life's demands and expectations.
  • Reality shows frequently revolve around contestants dealing with high-pressure situations to win competitions, showcasing varied human responses to stress.

Health

  • Chronic pressure can lead to various health problems, including heart disease and high blood pressure.
  • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are often recommended to relieve stress caused by pressure in daily life.
  • Exercise and a healthy diet are known to help mitigate the effects of pressure and improve overall resilience.

Origin of 'pressured'

The term 'pressured' derives from the verb 'press', which traces its origins to the Latin word 'pressare', meaning to press down or to compress. Over time, the meaning evolved to include various forms of exerting influence or force upon someone or something, particularly in social and emotional contexts. The suffix '-ed' indicates that it is in a state or condition caused by external influences, capturing the essence of feeling constrained or weighed down by obligations or expectations. The use of 'pressured' in contemporary English emphasizes both emotional strain and external pressure, making it a common term in discussions around mental health and societal expectations.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,514, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.