Turn of the screw Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A 'turn of the screw' is an action that increases pressure or tension in a situation, making things stricter or more intense, especially when something was already difficult.
Usage & Nuances
This is a semi-formal idiom, often used in news, discussions of rules, or difficult negotiations. It implies adding more difficulty or strictness after an already hard situation. When referencing the famous novel, the context is usually literary or when talking about psychological tension.
Example Sentences
The new rules were another turn of the screw for the employees.
basic
Each turn of the screw made life harder for the villagers.
basic
The boss gave us a turn of the screw before the deadline.
basic
Just when things were tough, the company gave us another turn of the screw with new targets.
natural
It felt like the government’s measures were one more turn of the screw after a hard year.
natural
Whenever there’s a crisis, leaders respond with a turn of the screw instead of support.
natural