Creak under the strain

Pro Tip 1/3

Physical Imagery

Imagine something literally creaking to understand the metaphor for struggling to cope.

The old bridge seemed to creak under the strain of the heavy trucks.

Pro Tip 2/3

Emotional Weight

This phrase often implies emotional stress, not just physical or mental demands.

She could feel herself creak under the strain of her parents' expectations.

Pro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

Remember it's a metaphor; no actual creaking sound is involved in real-life situations.

His smile began to creak under the strain of hiding his true feelings.