Reading Theme:
Pressure: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：mental stress, anxiety (pressure)
pressure
/ˈpreʃ.ər/
n.
A feeling of stress or worry because you have too much to do, or because people expect a lot from you.
mental stress, anxiety
➕
/ˈmen.t̬əl stres/, /æŋˈzaɪ.ə.ti/
n.
A mental or emotional state characterized by a sense of urgency, burden, or tension, often caused by demanding circumstances, responsibilities, or expectations from others.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'pressura' (act of pressing), from 'premere' (to press).
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'press' (to push) + '-ure' (a state). The state of being pushed on, either physically or mentally.
📖 Example
I feel a lot of pressure to get good grades because my parents want me to go to a top university.
I experience significant mental stress regarding achieving high academic scores due to my parents' expectation for me to attend a prestigious university.
🔗 Collocations
under pressure – experiencing stress from demands or difficult situations
put pressure on – to try to force or influence someone to do something
high-pressure – involving or causing a lot of stress (e.g., a high-pressure job)
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
relaxation (n.) – the state of being free from tension and anxiety
calm (n.) – a state of peace and quiet, free from agitation or strong emotion
ease (n.) – absence of difficulty or effort; freedom from worries or problems
🌱 Derivatives
pressurize (v.) – to attempt to persuade or coerce someone into doing something
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'pressure' entered English from Old French 'pressure' in the late 14th century, originating from Latin 'pressura', meaning 'a pressing, pressure'. It originally described physical compression before its psychological sense emerged, reflecting how internalized societal forces can feel like a physical weight.
Meaning 2：physical force, compression (pressure)
pressure
/ˈpreʃ.ər/
n.
The amount of force that is applied to a surface by something pushing against it.
physical force, compression
➕
/ˈfɪz.ɪ.kəl fɔːrs/, /kəmˈpreʃ.ən/
n.
The continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by something in contact with it, measured as force per unit area.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
You need to check the tire pressure of your bicycle regularly to ensure a smooth and safe ride.
It is necessary to monitor the air force inside your bicycle's tires frequently to guarantee a comfortable and secure journey.
🔗 Collocations
air pressure – the force exerted by the weight of the atmosphere
blood pressure – the pressure of the blood in the circulatory system
exert pressure – to apply physical force on something
🔄 Synonyms
force (n.) – strength or energy as an attribute of physical action or movement
compression (n.) – the action of compressing or being compressed
load (n.) – a weight or source of pressure borne by someone or something
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
compress (v.) – to flatten by pressure; squeeze or press together
depressurize (v.) – to release the pressure from a container or compartment
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