Meaning and Usage
"圧力" (あつりょく) primarily means "pressure" or "stress." It can refer to physical pressure, such as air or water pressure, or psychological/social pressure, like stress from work or influence from others.
Common Contexts
- Physical pressure: used in scientific or everyday contexts to describe force applied over an area.
- Psychological pressure: often used to describe stress or coercion from deadlines, people, or situations.
Collocations and Patterns
- 仕事の圧力 (work pressure): refers to stress or demands related to work.
- 圧力をかける (apply pressure): to exert influence or coercion on someone.
- 高圧力 (high pressure): often used in technical contexts.
Register and Nuance
"圧力" is a formal noun and common in both spoken and written Japanese, especially in business, science, and social discussions. When used for psychological pressure, it often implies a negative or stressful influence.
Common Learner Pitfall
Avoid confusing "圧力" with "ストレス" (stress). While related, "圧力" emphasizes external pressure or force, whereas "ストレス" focuses more on internal emotional strain.