Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

turn up the heat on someone

idiom
/tɜrn ʌp ðə hiːt ɒn ˈsʌmwʌn/
Definition
To apply pressure or intensity onto someone, often to force them to take action or make a decision.
Examples
  • When the deadline approached, the manager decided to turn up the heat on the team to finalize the project.
  • The coach turned up the heat on the players during practice to prepare them for the important match.
  • After several warnings, the teacher turned up the heat on the students to improve their grades.
Meaning
This phrase means to increase the intensity of a situation, making it more difficult for someone to avoid confrontation or a decision.
Synonyms
  • increase pressure on
  • intensify demands on
  • escalate the situation for