The idiom "put the squeeze on" means to apply pressure or force to someone or something. It is spelled /pʊt ðə skwiːz ɒn/. The initial sound /p/ is followed by the short vowel /ʊ/ and the voiceless /t/. The second word "the" is pronounced as /ði/ due to the following vowel sound beginning with a voiced consonant. "Squeeze" is spelled with the digraph "qu" representing the sound /kw/, and the final syllable has the long vowel /iː/ followed by the voiced /z/ and voiceless /s/.
To "put the squeeze on" is an idiomatic expression that means to exert pressure or apply force on someone in order to obtain a specific outcome or advantage. It typically involves using aggressive tactics or strategies to achieve one's goals or to gain an advantage over others.
This phrase is often used in competitive or confrontational situations, where one party is trying to gain the upper hand or manipulate others to their advantage. It implies a sense of coercion, manipulation, or intimidation, where pressure is being put on someone to conform to the wishes or demands of another.
The act of "putting the squeeze on" can manifest in various forms, such as using financial leverage, employing legal or political maneuvers, or exploiting personal relationships. It suggests a determined effort to gain control or dominance over a situation or individuals involved.
The phrase "putting the squeeze on" is frequently used in business contexts, where companies or individuals may try to apply pressure on their competitors, suppliers, or employees to achieve their desired outcomes or secure their interests. It can also be seen in personal relationships, where one person may try to manipulate or influence another to act in a certain way.
In summary, "putting the squeeze on" refers to the act of applying force, pressure, or manipulation to achieve personal or organizational goals, often in a competitive or confrontational context.