Under the gun Meaning in English
expression
Definición
To be in a situation where you feel pressure to do something quickly or well, often because of a deadline or high expectations.
Uso & Matices
This is an informal, somewhat idiomatic phrase. Commonly used in work or school to talk about deadlines or urgent tasks. Not usually literal—it doesn’t refer to real danger, but to feeling stress from time or expectations. Often follows forms like 'be/feel under the gun'.
Oraciones de Ejemplo
I'm under the gun to finish this report by 5 p.m.
basic
The students were under the gun during the exam.
basic
She feels under the gun to finish her work on time.
basic
I hate being under the gun, but tight deadlines are part of the job.
natural
Whenever I'm under the gun, I focus better and get things done faster.
natural
They put us under the gun to deliver the project ahead of schedule.
natural