Under pressure Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact Expresses a high emotional toll from challenges or responsibilities. The manager appeared calm, but she was actually under great pressure. Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Usage Used metaphorically, not indicating literal physical pressure. Artists often create their best work under pressure. Pro Tip 3/3Deadline Context Commonly linked with approaching deadlines and time constraints. She's under pressure to submit her thesis by next week.