Under the gun
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
Facing intense pressure or a tight deadline.
Origin
From 20th-century America, tied to guns; 'under the gun' meant marked, slang by 1920s for pressure. A 1926 'Variety' uses it for a rushed film.
Usage Examples
- We're under the gun to finish by Friday.
- He's under the gun with that client demand.
- Under the gun, she pulled an all-nighter.
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