Applying pressure is a common tactic used to influence someone to do something. The term can be broken down into four words: URGE, COERCE, EXERT, and ride herd on. URGE is a verb meaning to strongly advise or encourage someone to do something. COERCE is a verb meaning to persuade someone to do something by using force or threats. EXERT is a verb meaning to use strength or effort in order to do something. Ride herd on is an idiom meaning to closely supervise or manage someone or something. Together, these words describe the act of applying pressure to someone in order to influence them to do something.