Under the hammer意思

"Under the hammer" is an English idiom that has several meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. Here are some common interpretations:

1. Auction Context: In the context of an auction, "under the hammer" means that an item is being sold or is about to be sold. It implies that the item is being offered for sale and will be sold to the highest bidder.

2. Under Pressure or Judgment: More generally, "under the hammer" can mean being under pressure, scrutiny, or judgment. It suggests that someone or something is being subjected to a critical evaluation or is in a situation where they are under intense pressure to perform or deliver.

3. Under Threat or Danger: In a more metaphorical sense, it can imply that something or someone is under threat or in danger of being negatively affected or destroyed.

Here are some examples of how "under the hammer" might be used in different contexts:

• "The old house was sold under the hammer for a surprisingly high price."
• "The company's financial records are under the hammer as part of the fraud investigation."
• "The athletes felt they were under the hammer during the high-stakes competition."
• "The peace treaty is under the hammer as tensions between the two countries escalate."

The phrase is often used in a figurative sense to convey a sense of urgency, importance, or the seriousness of the situation.