Turn up the heat Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Literally, to increase the heat or temperature (such as on a stove). Figuratively, to increase pressure or intensity in a situation.
Usage & Nuances
Can be literal (about cooking) or figurative (about effort, pressure, competition). Common in sports, work, and negotiations. Often followed by 'on someone' when referring to pressure. Not usually used in very formal writing.
Example Sentences
Can you turn up the heat on the stove?
basic
The coach told the team to turn up the heat in the second half.
basic
It's getting cold. Let's turn up the heat.
basic
If we want them to finish faster, we need to turn up the heat on them.
natural
Halfway through the debate, she really turned up the heat on her opponent.
natural
When sales started to drop, management turned up the heat on the employees to work harder.
natural