Put the screws to (idiom):
Meaning: To apply pressure or force someone, often through manipulation, to do something or to act in a certain way; to intimidate, coerce, or forcefully persuade someone to comply with a request or demand.
Origin: The phrase "put the screws to" has its origins in the practice of using physical force to tighten screws, bolts, or other fasteners. The idea behind this idiom is to create a figurative sense of forcefully tightening or applying pressure on someone.
Usage: This idiom is commonly used in informal situations and conversations to describe situations where someone is being compelled or coerced to do something against their will. It often implies that undue pressure, manipulation, or intimidation is being used.
Example 1: The detective put the screws to the suspect, threatening him with severe consequences if he didn't confess to the crime.
Example 2: The boss really put the screws to the employees, demanding they work overtime without extra compensation.
Example 3: The salesperson put the screws to the client, pressuring them to sign the contract immediately by offering a discount that would expire at midnight.
Synonyms: Apply pressure, coerce, intimidate, strong-arm, squeeze, browbeat, bully.
