CREDIT CRUNCH Synonyms

• the act of gripping and pressing firmly

• a state in which there is a short supply of cash to lend to businesses and consumers and interest rates are high

• a situation in which increased costs cannot be passed on to the customer

• (slang) a person's girlfriend or boyfriend

• a twisting squeeze

• an aggressive attempt to compel acquiescence by the concentration or manipulation of power

• a tight or amorous embrace

• the act of forcing yourself (or being forced) into or through a restricted space

• to compress with violence, out of natural shape or condition

• press firmly

• squeeze like a wedge into a tight space

• to cause to do through pressure or necessity, by physical, moral or intellectual means

• obtain by coercion or intimidation

• press or force

• squeeze tightly between the fingers

• hold (someone) tightly in your arms, usually with fondness

• squeeze or press together