Definition

Verb: - To apply pressure on someone, typically in a persistent or forceful manner, in order to obtain something from them, such as money, information, or a favor. It implies using coercion, intimidation, or repeated demands.

Usage

The verb phrase "squeeze for" is used with a direct object (the person being pressured) followed by "for" and the thing being sought. It often carries a negative connotation of exploitation or undue pressure. - The structure is: to squeeze [someone] for [something].

Examples

• The corrupt official was known to squeeze local businesses for bribes.
• Journalists tried to squeeze the witness for more details about the event.
• Don't let them squeeze you for extra work without proper compensation.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used in continuous tenses to describe an ongoing, oppressive effort.
  • The loan sharks are squeezing him for every penny he has.
• It can be applied in both literal contexts of extortion and more figurative ones of intense questioning or demanding.
  • The detective squeezed the suspect for a confession.

Variants and Related Words

• Squeeze (verb): To press firmly, often used figuratively to mean applying pressure in various contexts (e.g., , ).
• Squeeze (noun): A situation of pressure or difficulty (e.g., ).

Synonyms

• Press for: To demand insistently.
• Extort from: To obtain something by force or threats (stronger, often illegal).
• Milk for: To exploit someone to obtain something, especially information or money (informal).

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Squeeze out: To force someone or something out, often through pressure or competition.
  • The new regulations could squeeze out small companies.

Related Idioms

• Put the squeeze on (someone): To apply pressure on someone to do something.
  • The creditors are putting the squeeze on him to repay the debt. This idiom is very close in meaning to "squeeze for."

Verb

1. squeeze someone for money, information, etc.