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the heat is on
01
used to indicate that a situation is becoming highly intense or critical, often implying increased pressure, urgency, or scrutiny
![the heat [is] on definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/41704/original/?type=jpeg "the heat [is] on definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalThe idiom "the heat is on" is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It likely comes from the idea of increased pressure or intensity when things become heated, just like in a situation where temperature rises. This idiom is used to indicate that a situation has become tense, critical, or intense.
Example
Last week, the heat was on the athletes as they vied for the championship title.
The heat is on the contestants as they enter the final round of the competition.
The heat is still on the management team to resolve the ongoing labor dispute.
