Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
turn-of-the-screw
noun
/ˈtɜrn əv ðə skruː/
Definition
A term referring to a situation where pressure is increased or tension is heightened, often leading to a more intense or complicated circumstance.
Examples
- The project faced a turn-of-the-screw when the deadline was moved up by two weeks.
- As negotiations progressed, a turn-of-the-screw became evident, pushing both sides to make concessions.
- The film’s plot reached its turn-of-the-screw moment during the final act, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.
Meaning
The phrase originates from the concept of tightening a screw, which metaphorically suggests adding more pressure or control to a situation.
Synonyms
- intensification
- pressure
- escalation
- tightening
- heightening
