Sweating bullets

Origin: The phrase 'sweating bullets' is believed to have originated in the United States during the early 20th century. It likely emerged from the idea that extreme stress or anxiety could cause someone to sweat as heavily as if they were carrying the weight of bullets.

Examples

• During his job interview, John was sweating bullets as he struggled to answer the unexpected questions.
• The actress was sweating bullets backstage before her big performance, fearing she might forget her lines.
• When the final exam results were announced, students were sweating bullets in the hallway, waiting for their names to be called.
• She was sweating bullets while waiting for the doctor to call with the test results.
• The CEO was sweating bullets during the critical board meeting, knowing the future of the company was at stake.
• He started sweating bullets when he realized he had left his passport at home, just minutes before his flight.
• As the jury delivered the verdict, the defendant was sweating bullets, knowing his fate hung in the balance.
• The politician was sweating bullets as reporters bombarded him with questions about the recent scandal.
• She was sweating bullets trying to finish her presentation before the deadline, afraid she might miss it.
• Waiting for his turn to speak in front of the large audience, he was sweating bullets, worried about making a good impression.