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Region: General | Usage example: He buckled under pressure during the audit.

Buckle under pressure

Meaning

Succumb to stress or demands.

Usage

Used when someone can't handle expectations.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

The idea of a material bending when stressed beyond capacity.

Engineering metaphors appear in psychology texts in the 20th century.

Related Idioms

Grace under pressure

Maintaining composure when stressed.

Water under the bridge

Past events that are forgiven or no longer important.

Under your belt

Gained experience or completed.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.