[Idiom] TIGHTEN THE SCREWS. - Learn How to Increase Pressure or Enforcement Effectively

Increase pressure or enforcement.

The idiom "Tighten the screws" is used when someone wants to increase pressure or enforcement to convince another person to act or comply. It metaphorically refers to turning screws tighter, which needs more effort, making the task or situation more stringent or restrictive. This phrase is commonly used in contexts where someone needs to enforce rules more strictly or urge someone to meet deadlines or obligations.

Example Sentences

1. The boss decided to tighten the screws on the project deadlines.

   The boss decided to increase the pressure to meet project deadlines.

2. They really tightened the screws on him when he couldn't deliver the results on time.

   They increased the pressure on him when he failed to deliver results on time.

3. Management is tightening the screws to ensure all employees finish their tasks before the holiday.

   Management is increasing the pressure to ensure all employees complete their tasks before the holiday.