bring pressure to bear on

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you be kind enough to tell me whether I am right with my interpretation of the expression in bold in the following sentence?

Through these two powerful weapons, they bring pressure to bear on parliaments, on legislation, on our educational system, on the judiciary on public opinion and on our relations with other countries.

bring pressure to bear on = put pressure on somebody = put the screw on somebody = exert pressure on somebody

Thanks for your efforts.

Regards,

V.

[riquecohen]

You´re correct, however, to put the screws on is very informal and wouldn´t be used in the context provided. It implies more than an ordinary attempt (e.g.-threats or undue force) to influence or compel someone to take some action.