What is the origin of phrase under gun?

The phrase "under the gun" likely originated from the practice of firing squads in the 19th century.

Here's the breakdown:

* Literal Meaning: When someone is "under the gun," they are literally positioned in front of a firing squad, directly in the line of fire.

* Figurative Meaning: The phrase evolved to describe situations where someone is facing pressure, threat, or imminent danger, similar to the feeling of being about to be executed.

* Earliest Use: While the exact origin is debated, the phrase "under the gun" is believed to have first appeared in American English during the late 19th century. It gained popularity around the time of the American Civil War.

Examples:

* "The company is under the gun to meet its sales targets this quarter."

* "He's under the gun to finish the project by Friday."

The phrase captures the sense of being in a high-stakes situation where failure is not an option. It emphasizes the urgency and pressure associated with the situation.