pressure point

noun

1. a point on the skin that is extremely sensitive to pressure because of the presence of pressure-sensing organs.

2. a point on the body where relatively slight pressure serves to press an artery lying close to the surface against underlying bony tissue, so as to arrest the flow of blood into a part.

3. a sensitive, crucial area or issue against which concerted persuasion or pressure tactics can be wielded to produce a desired result.

   Lobbyists attempt to find the pressure points of government.

pressure point

noun

1. any of several points on the body above an artery that, when firmly pressed, will control bleeding from the artery at a point farther away from the heart

Word History and Origins

Origin of pressure point¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The country’s “rare-earth dominance remains its most visible pressure point in the trade conflict — a weapon that can sting, but not guarantee victory,” said Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management.

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But those measures have also dimmed hopes of a resolution, removing some of the pressure points that had been expected to get the two sides talking about how to resolve their differences over spending.

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“The latest tensions between the U.S. and China will also be a pressure point on crude as China’s economy could be in question if tensions stay elevated.”

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“If he keeps this pace up, he’s right on a pressure point,” Lesenyie said.

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First, how Russia neutralises potential threats and pressure points.

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