to give sth/sb a push (with hand) 推了某物/某人一下 (tuīle mǒuwù/mǒurén yīxià)
at the push of a button只要按一下按钮(鈕) (zhǐyào àn yīxià ànniǔ)
at a push (Brit, inf) 紧(緊)急情况(況)下 (jǐnjí qíngkuàng xià)
to push one's way through the crowd挤(擠)过(過)人群 (jǐguò rénqún)
to push sth/sb out of the way把某物/某人推开(開) (bǎ mǒuwù/mǒurén tuīkāi)
to push a door open/shut把门(門)推开(開)/上 (bǎ mén tuīkāi/shàng)
"push" (on door) "推" ("tuī")
to push sb to do sth促使某人做某事 (cùshǐ mǒurén zuò mǒushì)
to push sb into doing sth迫使某人做某事 (pòshǐ mǒurén zuò mǒushì)
to push o.s. to the limit将(將)自己推到极(極)限 (jiāng zìjǐ tuī dào jíxiàn)
to be pushed for time/money (inf) 赶(趕)时(時)间(間)/缺钱(錢) (gǎn shíjiān/quēqián)
she's pushing fifty (inf) 她将(將)近50岁(歲)了 (tā jiāngjìn wǔshí suì le)
to push forward/push through the crowd挤(擠)向/过(過)人群 (jǐxiàng/guò rénqún)
"push"
(on door) "推" ("tuī")
See push (sense 9)
All related terms of 'push'
"push"
( on door ) "推" "tuī"
push in
( in queue ) 插队(隊) chāduì
push on
( continue )
push up
( total, prices ) 提高 tígāo
push-up
俯卧(臥)撑(撐) fǔwòchēng [ 个(個) gè ]
push for
迫切要求 pòqiè yāoqiú
push off
( leave ) 走开(開) zǒukāi
push back
( chair, hair ) 往后(後)推 wǎnghòu tuī
push down
( total, prices ) 降低 jiàngdī
push off!
滚(滾)开(開)! Gǔnkāi!
push over
( person, wall, furniture ) 推倒 tuīdǎo
at a push
( Brit : inf ) 紧(緊)急情况(況)下 jǐnjí qíngkuàng xià
push ahead
( make progress )
push around
( bully ) 摆(擺)布(佈) bǎibù
push aside
( idea, thought ) 忽略 hūlüè
push forward
= push ahead
push through
( measure, scheme ) 促成 cùchéng
to do push-ups
做俯卧(臥)撑(撐) zuò fǔwòchēng
to give a shrug/push
耸(聳)了耸(聳)肩/推了一把 sǒngle sǒng jiān/tuīle yī bǎ
to give sth/sb a push
( with hand ) 推了某物/某人一下 tuīle mǒuwù/mǒurén yīxià
to push sb to do sth
促使某人做某事 cùshǐ mǒurén zuò mǒushì
at the push of a button
只要按一下按钮(鈕) zhǐyào àn yīxià ànniǔ
to push a door open/shut
把门(門)推开(開)/上 bǎ mén tuīkāi/shàng
to push o.s. to the limit
将(將)自己推到极(極)限 jiāng zìjǐ tuī dào jíxiàn
to push sb into doing sth
迫使某人做某事 pòshǐ mǒurén zuò mǒushì
to push/pull the door to
把门(門)掩上 bǎ mén yǎnshàng
to push forward/push through the crowd
挤(擠)向/过(過)人群 jǐxiàng/guò rénqún
to push sth/sb out of the way
把某物/某人推开(開) bǎ mǒuwù/mǒurén tuīkāi
to push one's way through the crowd
挤(擠)过(過)人群 jǐguò rénqún
to push on (with sth)
加紧(緊)(做某事) jiājǐn (zuò mǒushì)
to push ahead (with sth)
推进(進)(某事) tuījìn (mǒushì)
Additional synonyms
in the sense of poke
Definition
a jab or prod
John smiled and gave Rashid a playful poke.
Synonyms
jab,
hit,
dig,
punch,
thrust,
butt,
nudge,
prod
in the sense of press on
Definition
to continue in a determined way
Organizers of the strike are determined to press on.
Synonyms
continue,
proceed,
carry on,
keep going,
move forward,
make progress,
press ahead,
persevere,
not give up,
soldier on (informal),
push on,
struggle on,
forge ahead,
go the distance,
stay the course,
keep at it,
stick at it (informal),
crack on (informal)
in the sense of proceed
Definition
to walk or go
She proceeded along the hallway.
Synonyms
go on,
continue,
advance,
progress,
carry on,
go ahead,
move on,
move forward,
press on,
push on,
make your way,
crack on (informal)
in the sense of prod
Definition
to poke with a pointed object
He prodded Murray with the broom.
Synonyms
poke,
push,
dig,
shove,
propel,
nudge,
jab,
prick
in the sense of prod
Definition
to rouse (someone) to action
a tactic to prod the government into spending more on education
Synonyms
prompt,
move,
urge,
motivate,
spur,
stimulate,
rouse,
stir up,
incite,
egg on,
goad,
impel,
put a bomb under (informal)
in the sense of prod
Definition
the act of prodding
He gave the donkey a prod in the backside.
Synonyms
poke,
push,
boost,
dig,
elbow,
shove,
nudge,
jab
in the sense of progress
Definition
to move forward
He progressed slowly along the coast in an easterly direction.
Synonyms
move on,
continue,
travel,
advance,
proceed,
go forward,
gain ground,
forge ahead,
make inroads (into),
make headway,
make your way,
cover ground,
make strides,
gather way,
crack on (informal)
in the sense of propel
Definition
to cause to move forwards
The rocket is designed to propel the spacecraft.
Synonyms
drive,
launch,
start,
force,
send,
shoot,
push,
thrust,
shove,
set in motion
in the sense of publicize
Definition
to bring to public attention
The author appeared on TV to publicize her latest book.
Synonyms
advertise,
promote,
plug (informal),
hype,
push,
spotlight,
puff,
play up,
write up,
spread about,
beat the drum for (informal),
give publicity to,
bring to public notice
in the sense of puff
TV correspondents puffing the new digital channels
Synonyms
promote,
push,
plug (informal),
hype,
publicize,
advertise,
praise,
crack up (informal),
big up (slang),
overpraise
Synonyms of 'push'
push
Explore 'push' in the dictionary
Additional synonyms
in the sense of vitality
Definition
physical or mental energy
He fell in love with her for her vitality and sense of fun.
Synonyms
energy,
vivacity,
sparkle,
go (informal),
life,
strength,
pep,
stamina,
animation,
vigour,
exuberance,
welly (slang),
brio,
robustness,
liveliness,
vim,
lustiness,
vivaciousness
Additional synonyms
in the sense of move
Definition
to cause or prompt to do something
The hearings moved me to come up with these suggestions.
Synonyms
drive,
lead,
cause,
influence,
persuade,
push,
shift,
inspire,
prompt,
stimulate,
motivate,
induce,
shove,
activate,
propel,
rouse,
prod,
incite,
impel,
set going
in the sense of nudge
Definition
to push (something or someone) lightly
`Stop it,' he said, and nudged me in the ribs.
Synonyms
push,
touch,
dig,
jog,
prod,
elbow,
shove,
poke
in the sense of nudge
Definition
a gentle poke or push
She slipped her arm under his and gave him a nudge.
Synonyms
push,
touch,
dig,
elbow,
bump,
shove,
poke,
jog,
prod
in the sense of offensive
Definition
an attack or hostile action
The armed forces have launched an offensive to recapture lost ground.
Synonyms
attack,
charge,
campaign,
strike,
push (informal),
rush,
assault,
raid,
drive,
invasion,
onslaught,
foray,
incursion
in the sense of peddle
Definition
to sell (goods) from place to place
dealers peddling drugs
Synonyms
sell,
trade,
push (informal),
market,
hawk,
flog (slang),
vend,
huckster,
sell door to door
in the sense of pep
Definition
high spirits, energy, or vitality
They need something to put the pep back in their lives.
Synonyms
energy,
life,
spirit,
zip (informal),
vitality,
animation,
vigour,
verve,
high spirits,
gusto,
welly (slang),
get-up-and-go (informal),
brio,
vivacity,
liveliness,
vim
in the sense of persuade
Definition
to make (someone) do something by reason or charm
My husband persuaded me to come.
Synonyms
talk (someone) into,
urge,
advise,
prompt,
influence,
counsel,
win (someone) over,
induce,
sway,
entice,
coax,
incite,
prevail upon,
inveigle,
bring (someone) round (informal),
twist (someone's) arm,
argue (someone) into
in the sense of plug
Definition
to make frequent favourable mentions of (a product etc.), for example on television
If I hear another actor plugging his latest book I will scream.
Synonyms
mention,
push,
promote,
publicize,
advertise,
build up,
puff,
hype,
write up,
namecheck
in the sense of plunge
Definition
to thrust or throw (something or oneself) forcibly or suddenly
A soldier plunged a bayonet into his body.
Synonyms
stab,
push,
stick,
sink,
thrust,
jab
in the sense of poke
Definition
to jab or prod with an elbow, finger, etc.
Lindy poked him in the ribs.
Synonyms
jab,
hit,
push,
stick,
dig,
punch,
stab,
thrust,
butt,
elbow,
shove,
nudge,
prod
Additional synonyms
in the sense of raid
Definition
a sudden surprise attack
The rebels attempted a surprise raid on a military camp.
Synonyms
attack,
invasion,
seizure,
onset,
foray,
sortie,
incursion,
surprise attack,
hit-and-run attack,
sally,
inroad,
irruption
in the sense of shoulder
Definition
to push with one's shoulder
He shouldered past her and opened the door.
Synonyms
push,
thrust,
elbow,
shove,
jostle,
press
in the sense of spur
Definition
to encourage (someone)
His friend's plight had spurred him into taking part.
Synonyms
incite,
drive,
prompt,
press,
urge,
stimulate,
animate,
prod,
prick,
goad,
impel
in the sense of squeeze
Definition
to crush or press (something) so as to extract (a liquid)
Joe squeezed some juice from the oranges.
Synonyms
extract,
force,
press,
express
in the sense of sweep
Suddenly, she was swept along by the crowd.
Synonyms
carry,
pull,
drag,
drive
in the sense of thrust
Definition
to push (someone or something) with force
They thrust him into the back of a jeep.
Synonyms
push,
force,
shove,
drive,
press,
plunge,
jam,
butt,
ram,
poke,
propel,
prod,
impel
in the sense of thrust
Definition
to force (one's way) through a crowd, forest, etc.
She thrust her way into the crowd.
Synonyms
shove,
push,
shoulder,
lunge,
jostle,
elbow or shoulder your way
in the sense of thrust
Definition
a forceful drive, push, stab, or lunge
a thrust of his hand that sent the lad reeling
Synonyms
push,
shove,
poke,
prod
in the sense of thrust
a thrust into territory seized by enemy forces
Synonyms
attack,
drive,
charge,
push (informal),
assault,
raid,
invasion,
offensive,
sally,
onslaught,
foray,
sortie,
incursion,
military advance
in the sense of vigour
Definition
physical or mental energy
He lacks the vigour of a normal, healthy teenager.He played with great vigour.
Synonyms
energy,
might,
force,
vitality,
power,
activity,
spirit,
strength,
snap (informal),
punch (informal),
dash,
pep,
zip (informal),
animation,
verve,
gusto,
dynamism,
welly (slang),
oomph (informal),
brio,
robustness,
liveliness,
vim,
forcefulness
All related terms of 'push'
push on
continue (your journey), go on, advance, progress, proceed
push off
go away, leave, get lost, clear off, take off
the push
dismissal, the sack, discharge, the boot, your cards
push for something
demand, champion, call for, campaign for, urge
push someone around
bully, intimidate, pick on, tread on, trample on
push the boat out
celebrate, party, large it, have a fling, go the whole hog
push something forward
speed (up), advance, promote, accelerate, forward
push
(pʊʃ)
Word forms: plural, 3rd person singular presenttense pushes, present participle pushing, past tense, past participle pushed
1. verb
When you push something, you use force to make it move away from you or away from its previous position.
The woman pushed back her chair and stood up. [VERB noun with adverb]
They pushed him into the car. [VERB noun preposition]
...a woman pushing a pushchair. [VERB noun]
He put both hands flat on the door and pushed as hard as he could. [VERB]
When there was no reply, he pushed the door open. [VERB noun adjective]
Synonyms: shove, force, press, thrust More Synonyms of push
Push is also a noun.
He gave me a sharp push.
Information is called up at the push of a button. [+ of]
2. verb
If you push through things that are blocking your way or push your way through them, you use force in order to move past them.
I pushed through the crowds and on to the escalator. [VERB preposition/adverb]
Dix pushed forward carrying a glass. [VERB preposition/adverb]
He pushed his way towards her, laughing. [VERB noun preposition/adverb]
Synonyms: make or force your way, move, shoulder, inch More Synonyms of push
3. verb
If an army pushes into a country or area that it is attacking or invading, it moves further into it.
One detachment pushed into the eastern suburbs towards the airfield. [VERB + into]
The army may push southwards into the Kurdish areas. [V adv + into]
Synonyms: advance, progress, proceed, go on More Synonyms of push
Push is also a noun.
All that was needed was one final push, and the enemy would be vanquished once andfor all.
4. verb
To push a value or amount up or down means to cause it to increase or decrease.
Any shortage could push up grain prices. [VERB noun with adverb]
The government had done everything it could to push down inflation. [VERB noun with adverb]
Interest had pushed the loan up to $27,000. [VERB noun preposition]
5. verb
If someone or something pushes an idea or project in a particular direction, they cause it to develop or progress in a particular way.
We are continuing to push the business forward. [VERB noun with adverb]
The government seemed intent on pushing local and central government in oppositedirections. [VERB noun preposition]
6. verb
If you push someone to do something or push them into doing it, you encourage or force them to do it.
She thanks her parents for keeping her in school and pushing her to study. [VERB noun to-infinitive]
James did not push her into stealing the money. [VERB noun + into]
I knew he was pushing himself to the limit. [VERB noun preposition/adverb]
There is no point in pushing them unless they are talented. [VERB noun]
Synonyms: urge, encourage, persuade, spur More Synonyms of push
Push is also a noun.
We need a push to take the first step.
7. verb
If you push for something, you try very hard to achieve it or to persuade someone to do it.
Campaigners are pushing for more information and better treatments. [VERB + for]
Germany is pushing for direct flights to be established. [VERB + for]
Push is also a noun.
In its push for economic growth it has ignored projects that would improve livingstandards.
They urged negotiators to make a final push to arrive at an agreement.
8. verb
If someone pushes an idea, a point, or a product, they try in a forceful way to convince people to accept it or buy it.
Ministers will push the case for opening the plant. [VERB noun]
She knew they could push a hundred thousand copies into the bookshops. [VERB noun]
9. verb
When someone pushes drugs, they sell them illegally.
[informal]
She was sent for trial yesterday accused of pushing drugs. [VERB noun]
Synonyms: sell, supply, deal in, peddle More Synonyms of push
10. verb [usually cont]
If you say that someone is pushing it, you mean that their actions or claims are rather excessive or risky.
[informal]
I think that he was pushing it a bit when he said it was the best stadium in theworld. [VERBit]
11. See also pushed, pushing
12.
See give sb/get the push
13. to push the boat out
14. to push your luck
15. if push comes to shove
Phrasal verbs:
See push ahead
See push around
See push aside
See push back
See push forward
See push in
See push off
See push on
See push over
See push through
More Synonyms of push
push in British English
(pʊʃ)
verb
1. (whentr, often foll by off, away, etc)
to apply steady force to (something) in order to move it
2.
to thrust (one's way) through something, such as a crowd, by force
3. (whenintr,often foll by for)
to apply oneself vigorously (to achieving a task, plan, etc)
4. (transitive)
to encourage or urge (a person) to some action, decision, etc
5. (whenintr,often foll by for)
to be an advocate or promoter (of)
to push for acceptance of one's theories
6. (transitive)
to use one's influence to help (a person)
to push one's own candidate
7.
to bear upon (oneself or another person) in order to achieve more effort, better results, etc
we need to push these children harder
8.
a. (transitive)
to take undue risks, esp through overconfidence, thus risking failure
to push one's luck
b. (intransitive)
to act overconfidently
9. sport
to hit (a ball) with a stiff pushing stroke
10. (transitive) informal
to sell (narcotic drugs) illegally
11. (intr; foll by out, into, etc)
(esp of geographical features) to reach or extend
the cliffs pushed out to the sea
12. (transitive)
to overdevelop (a photographic film), usually by the equivalent of up to two stops, to compensate for underexposure or increase contrast
13. push up daisies
noun
14.
the act of pushing; thrust
15.
a part or device that is pressed to operate some mechanism
16. informal
ambitious or enterprising drive, energy, etc
17. informal
a special effort or attempt to advance, as of an army in a war
to make a push
18. informal
a number of people gathered in one place, such as at a party
19. Australian slang
a group or gang, esp one considered to be a clique
20. sport
a stiff pushing stroke
21. at a push
22. the push
23. when push comes to shove
Word origin
C13: from Old French pousser, from Latin pulsāre, from pellere to drive
push in American English
(pʊʃ)
verb transitive
1.
a.
to exert pressure or force against, esp. so as to move
b.
to move in this way
c.
to thrust, shove, or drive (up, down, in, out, etc.)
2.
a.
to urge on; impel; press
b.
to follow up vigorously; promote (a campaign, claim, etc.)
c.
to extend or expand (business activities, etc.)
3.
to bring into a critical state; esp., to make critically in need
to be pushed for time
4.
to urge or promote the use, sale, success, etc. of
5. US, Informal
to be near or close to
pushing seventy years of age
6. US, Baseball, Golf
to hit (the ball) and make it go to the right or, if one is left-handed, to the left
verb intransitive
7.
to press against a thing so as to move it
8.
to put forth great effort, as in seeking advancement
9.
to move forward against opposition
10.
to move by being pushed
noun
11.
the act of pushing
12.
a thing to be pushed so as to work a mechanism
13.
a vigorous effort, campaign, etc.
14.
an advance against opposition
15.
pressure of affairs or of circumstances
16.
an emergency
17. Informal
aggressiveness; enterprise; drive
Idioms:
push comes to shove
push off
push on
Word origin
ME posshen < MFr pousser < OFr poulser < L pulsare, to beat < pulsus: see pulse1
More idioms containing
push
push the envelope
push at an open door
push the boat out
at a push
get the push
when push comes to shove
push someone over the top
Examples of 'push' in a sentence
push
Ministers in four government departments are pushing the message while on overseas trips.
The Sun (2016)
Turn over the chicken thighs and push to one side of the pan.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
It could also see shareholders push for guidance on when dividends may be increased.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
You need to push back the wing backs to make them defend.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
The unexpected move pushed the biggest public inquiry in British history into its most serious crisis.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Something has to push them out and that could happen, quite clearly.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Some say this could be the push needed to force those who shun the online world into the 21st century.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
The two forces had pushed up its costs by 50%, he said.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
She did make a limited attempt to push him away but she remained lifeless.
The Sun (2016)
We need to vote for opposition parties so they can push the government.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
Cut the bottom end at an angle to make pushing them into the ground easier.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
You move forward by pushing the ski inside to out.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
You push one up front because you need to do something different.
The Sun (2016)
He has also pushed the revaluation of homes into the longest grass.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
We need something positive to push this week.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
Prayer once again is our means of releasing divine power to push back these forces.
Christianity Today (2000)
He ignored all calls to stop and attempts to push him from the machine.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
But it pushes you and makes you work harder.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
You can be the one who makes the moves and pushes through obstacles.
The Sun (2011)
The machine is best entered by pushing one of the movement arms forward.
Lycholat, Tony Shape Your Body, Shape Your Life (1987)
There was always a sense there was something pushing at her.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
Cheap flights have helped to push the number of foreign visitors to the city to three million last year.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
The government is attempting to push through a radical restructuring of the probation service before the next general election.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
Instead she thinks the way forward is for ambitious women to push themselves and to change the culture around them.
The Sun (2015)
He knows he has to push himself to make a great fifth album and reading accomplished poets can only help.
The Sun (2011)
The fees have been blamed for pushing up the number of personal injury claims leading to higher insurance costs for drivers.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
This also pushes the blood pressure up, which can cause headaches.
Wallace, Louise M & Bundy, Christine Coping with Angina (1990)
Mars gives you a surge of confidence and energy that makes this a productive day and helps you push ambitious plans into action.
The Sun (2014)
It tests me as a person, forces me to push the boundaries and grow up.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
Medical groups had been pushing for a minimum price of 50p a unit.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
In other languages
push
British English: push /pʊʃ/ VERB
When you push something, you press it in order to move it away from you.
I pushed back my chair and stood up.
The men pushed and the horses pulled as they moved the fallen tree.
American English: push
Arabic: يَدْفَع
Brazilian Portuguese: empurrar
Chinese: 推动
Croatian: gurati
Czech: tlačit
Danish: skubbe
Dutch: duwen
European Spanish: empujar
Finnish: työntää
French: pousser
German: schieben
Greek: σπρώχνω
Italian: spingere
Japanese: 押す
Korean: ...을 밀다
Norwegian: dytte
Polish: pchnąć
European Portuguese: empurrar
Romanian: a împinge
Russian: толкать
Latin American Spanish: empujar
Swedish: skjuta fösa
Thai: ผลัก
Turkish: itmek
Ukrainian: штовхати
Vietnamese: đẩy
All related terms of 'push'
push in
When someone pushes in , they unfairly join a queue or line in front of other people who have been waiting longer.
push on
When you push on , you continue with a journey or task .
push-up
Push-ups are exercises to strengthen your arms and chest muscles . They are done by lying with your face towards the floor and pushing with your hands to raise your body until your arms are straight.
bell push
a button that is pressed to operate an electric bell
push back
If you push back against something, such as a change or criticism , you refuse to accept it or try to prevent it.
push-bike
A push bike is a bicycle which you move by turning the pedals with your feet.
push fit
a fit that enables one part to be inserted into another by sliding or pushing , rather than by hammering
push off
If you tell someone to push off , you are telling them rather rudely to go away.
push over
If you push someone or something over , you push them so that they fall onto the ground .
push-pull
using two similar electronic devices, such as matched valves , made to operate 180° out of phase with each other. The outputs are combined to produce a signal that replicates the input waveform
push shot
a shot with one hand from a point relatively distant from the basket , in which a player shoots the ball from shoulder level or above
the push
dismissal , esp from employment
at a push
if absolutely necessary
push about
to bully ; keep telling (a person) what to do in a bossy manner
push ahead
If you push ahead or push forward with something, you make progress with it.
push along
to go away
push around
If someone pushes you around , they give you orders in a rude and insulting way.
push aside
If you push something aside , you ignore it or refuse to think about it.
push broom
a wide brush pushed by means of a long handle , used for sweeping large areas
push button
A push-button machine or process is controlled by means of buttons or switches.
push money
a cash inducement provided by a manufacturer or distributor for retailers or their staff, to reward successful selling
push-start
to start (a motor vehicle) by pushing it while it is in gear , thus turning the engine
forward push
A forward push is a feature of distillation columns (= tall vessels for distillation) in which zones that allow higher contact between substances are near the top of the column.
push forward
push polling
the use of loaded questions in a supposedly objective telephone opinion poll during a political campaign in order to bias voters against an opposing candidate
push through
If someone pushes through a law, they succeed in getting it accepted although some people oppose it.
get the push
to lose your job
push an agenda
You can refer to the political issues which are important at a particular time as an agenda .
pushrod
a metal rod transmitting the reciprocating motion that operates the valves of an internal-combustion engine having the camshaft in the crankcase
push-pull circuit
a circuit using two similar electronic devices, such as matched valves , made to operate 180° out of phase with each other
push the envelope
If someone pushes the envelope , they do something to a greater degree or in a more extreme way than it has ever been done before.
push up daisies
to be dead and buried
pushchair
A pushchair is a small chair on wheels, in which a baby or small child can sit and be wheeled around.
cost-push inflation
the act of inflating or state of being inflated
push the boat out
to spend a lot of money in order to have a very enjoyable time
to push your luck
If you say that someone is pushing their luck , you think they are taking a bigger risk than is sensible , and may get into trouble .
wage-push inflation
an inflationary trend caused by wage increases that in turn cause rises in production costs and prices
push comes to shove
matters become serious or reach a critical point where some action or decision is required
push the panic button
to panic ; specif., to react to a crisis with some frantic , often disastrous action
push up (the) daisies
to be dead and buried
give sb/get the push
If you get the push or are given the push , you are told that you are not wanted any more, either in your job or by someone you are having a relationship with.
if push comes to shove
If you talk about what you think will happen if push comes to shove , you are talking about what you think will happen if a situation becomes very bad or difficult .
push at an open door
to find it very easy to achieve your aims
to push the boat out
If you push the boat out , you spend a lot of money on something, especially in order to celebrate .
press/push the right button
If you say that someone presses the right button or pushes the right button , you mean that they get what they want from a particular situation or person by behaving in a clever way.
push someone over the top
in a competition or contest , if something pushes someone over the top, it results in them winning
when push comes to shove
when a situation reaches a critical point and you must make a decision on how to progress
crowd one's luck
to take unnecessary risks in an already favorable situation
press-up
Press-ups are exercises to strengthen your arms and chest muscles . They are done by lying with your face towards the floor and pushing with your hands to raise your body until your arms are straight.
sliding fit
a fit that enables one part to be inserted into another by sliding or pushing , rather than by hammering
1 (verb)
Definition
to apply steady force to in order to move
They pushed him into the car.
Synonyms
shove
force
The extra weight of the crash helmet forced my head backwards.
press
thrust
They thrust him into the back of a jeep.
drive
I used the sledgehammer to drive the pegs in.
knock
sweep
Suddenly, she was swept along by the crowd.
plunge
A soldier plunged a bayonet into his body.
elbow
bump
ram
poke
Lindy poked him in the ribs.
propel
The rocket is designed to propel the spacecraft.
nudge
`Stop it,' he said, and nudged me in the ribs.
prod
He prodded Murray with the broom.
jostle
hustle
The guards hustled Harry out of the car.
bulldoze (informal)
He bulldozed through the Tigers' defence.
impel
manhandle
The three of us manhandled the dinghy out of the shed.
Opposites
draw
,
pull
,
drag
,
trail
,
haul
,
tow
,
tug
,
jerk
,
yank
2 (verb)
He got into the lift and pushed the button for the second floor.
Synonyms
press
He pressed his back against the door.
operate
depress
He depressed the pedal that lowered the chair.
squeeze
Joe squeezed some juice from the oranges.
activate
hold down
3 (verb)
Definition
to thrust (one's way) through something, such as a crowd
I pushed through the crowds and on to the escalator.
Synonyms
make or force your way
move
The hearings moved me to come up with these suggestions.
shoulder
He shouldered past her and opened the door.
inch
squeeze
thrust
She thrust her way into the crowd.
elbow
They elbowed me out of the way.
shove
He shoved her out of the way.
jostle
We spent an hour jostling with the crowds as we did our shopping.
work your way
thread your way
4 (verb)
The army may push southwards in the coming weeks.
Synonyms
advance
Rebel forces are advancing on the capital.
progress
He progressed slowly along the coast in an easterly direction.
proceed
She proceeded along the hallway.
go on
the necessity for the war to go on
go ahead
The board will vote today on whether to go ahead with the plan.
go forward
press on
Organizers of the strike are determined to press on.
make inroads
move onward
5 (verb)
Definition
to spur or drive (oneself or another person) in order to achieve more effort or better results
Her parents kept her in school and pushed her to study.
Synonyms
urge
He urged restraint on the security forces.
encourage
She encouraged her to demand a pay rise.
persuade
My husband persuaded me to come.
spur
His friend's plight had spurred him into taking part.
drive
Curiosity drove me to probe into what they worked on together.
press
influence
The conference influenced us to launch the campaign.
prod
a tactic to prod the government into spending more on education
constrain
Individuals will be constrained to make many sacrifices for the greater good.
incite
He incited his fellow citizens to take revenge.
coerce
He argued that the government had coerced him into resigning.
egg on
impel
I felt impelled to go on speaking.
browbeat
exert influence on
inspan (South Africa)
Opposites
discourage
,
deter
,
put off
,
dissuade
6 (verb)
Definition
to be an advocate or promoter (of)
Advertisers often use scientific doublespeak to push their products.
Synonyms
promote
He has announced a full British tour to promote his new album.
advertise
Religious groups are not allowed to advertise on TV.
It has been much advertised in specialist magazines.
hype
We had to hype the film to attract the financiers.
publicize
The author appeared on TV to publicize her latest book.
boost
companies seeking to boost their product ranges
plug (informal)
If I hear another actor plugging his latest book I will scream.
puff
TV correspondents puffing the new digital channels
make known
propagandize
cry up (old-fashioned)
7 (verb)
Definition
to sell (narcotic drugs) illegally
She was accused of pushing drugs.
Synonyms
sell
It sells everything from hair ribbons to oriental rugs.
supply
deal in
peddle
dealers peddling drugs
traffic in
1 (noun)
Definition
the act of pushing
He gave me a sharp push.
Synonyms
shove
She gave Gracie a shove in the back.
thrust
a thrust of his hand that sent the lad reeling
butt
elbow
poke
John smiled and gave Rashid a playful poke.
nudge
She slipped her arm under his and gave him a nudge.
prod
He gave the donkey a prod in the backside.
jolt
Opposites
pull
,
tug
,
jerk
,
yank
2 (noun)
Definition
a special effort to achieve something
(informal)
All that was needed was one final push, and the enemy would be vanquished once and for all.
Synonyms
effort
charge
He led the cavalry charge from the front.
attack
a campaign of air attacks on strategic targets
campaign
The General's campaign against the militia has so far failed.
advance
They simulated an advance on enemy positions.
assault
The rebels are poised for a new assault.
raid
The rebels attempted a surprise raid on a military camp.
offensive
The armed forces have launched an offensive to recapture lost ground.
sally
thrust
a thrust into territory seized by enemy forces
blitz
Security forces are active since the bombing blitz last month.
onset
3 (noun)
Definition
drive or determination
(informal)
He lacked the push to succeed in his chosen vocation.
Synonyms
drive
He is best remembered for his drive and enthusiasm.
go (informal)
Considering her age, she still has a lot of go in her.
energy
At 65 years old, her energy is wonderful.
initiative
He was disappointed by her lack of initiative.
enterprise
His trouble is that he lacks enterprise.
ambition
a mixture of ambition and ruthlessness
determination
They acted with great courage and determination.
pep
They need something to put the pep back in their lives.
vitality
He fell in love with her for her vitality and sense of fun.
vigour
He lacks the vigour of a normal, healthy teenager.
He played with great vigour.
dynamism
a situation that calls for dynamism and new thinking
welly (slang)
get-up-and-go (informal)
She's got more get-up-and-go than anyone I know.
gumption (informal)
He didn't have the gumption to seize the opportunity when it came up.
Phrasal verbs
See push for something
See push off
See push on
See push someone around
See push something forward
phrase
See the push
Additional synonyms
in the sense of advertise
Definition
to present or praise (goods or a service) to the public, in order to encourage sales
Religious groups are not allowed to advertise on TV.It has been much advertised in specialist magazines.
Synonyms
publicize,
promote,
plug (informal),
announce,
publish,
push (informal),
display,
declare,
broadcast,
advise,
inform,
praise,
proclaim,
puff,
hype,
notify,
tout,
flaunt,
crack up (informal),
promulgate,
make known,
apprise,
beat the drum (informal),
blazon,
bring to public notice
in the sense of ambition
Definition
strong desire for success
a mixture of ambition and ruthlessness
Synonyms
enterprise,
longing,
drive,
fire,
spirit,
desire,
passion,
enthusiasm,
warmth,
striving,
initiative,
aspiration,
yearning,
devotion,
zeal,
verve,
zest,
fervour,
eagerness,
gusto,
hankering,
get-up-and-go (informal),
ardour,
keenness,
avidity,
fervency
in the sense of assault
Definition
a violent attack, either physical or verbal
The rebels are poised for a new assault.
Synonyms
attack,
campaign,
strike,
rush,
storm,
storming,
raid,
invasion,
charge,
offensive,
onset,
onslaught,
foray,
incursion,
act of aggression,
inroad
Additional synonyms
in the sense of attack
Definition
the act of attacking
a campaign of air attacks on strategic targets
Synonyms
assault,
charge,
campaign,
strike,
rush,
raid,
invasion,
offensive,
aggression,
blitz,
onset,
onslaught,
foray,
incursion,
inroad
in the sense of blitz
Definition
a violent and sustained attack by enemy aircraft
Security forces are active since the bombing blitz last month.
Synonyms
attack,
strike,
assault,
raid,
offensive,
onslaught,
bombardment,
bombing campaign,
blitzkrieg
in the sense of boost
Definition
to advertise on a big scale
companies seeking to boost their product ranges
Synonyms
promote,
improve,
encourage,
advance,
advertise,
praise,
plug (informal),
hype,
crack up (informal),
big up (slang)
in the sense of bulldoze
He bulldozed through the Tigers' defence.
Synonyms
push,
force,
drive,
thrust,
shove,
propel
in the sense of butt
Definition
a blow with the head or horns
Synonyms
knock,
push,
punch,
buck,
thrust,
bump,
ram,
shove,
poke,
buffet,
prod,
jab,
bunt
in the sense of campaign
Definition
a number of operations aimed at achieving a single objective
The General's campaign against the militia has so far failed.
Synonyms
operation,
drive,
attack,
movement,
push,
offensive,
expedition,
crusade,
jihad
in the sense of charge
Definition
an onrush or attack
He led the cavalry charge from the front.
Synonyms
attack,
rush,
assault,
onset,
onslaught,
stampede,
sortie
in the sense of coerce
Definition
to compel or force
He argued that the government had coerced him into resigning.
Synonyms
force,
compel,
bully,
intimidate,
railroad (informal),
constrain,
bulldoze (informal),
dragoon,
pressurize,
browbeat,
press-gang,
twist (someone's) arm (informal),
drive
in the sense of constrain
Definition
to compel or force
Individuals will be constrained to make many sacrifices for the greater good.
Synonyms
force,
pressure,
urge,
bind,
compel,
oblige,
necessitate,
coerce,
impel,
pressurize,
drive
in the sense of depress
Definition
to push down
He depressed the pedal that lowered the chair.
Synonyms
press down,
push,
squeeze,
lower,
flatten,
compress,
push down,
bear down on
Additional synonyms
in the sense of determination
Definition
the condition of being determined
They acted with great courage and determination.
Synonyms
resolution,
purpose,
resolve,
drive,
energy,
conviction,
courage,
dedication,
backbone,
fortitude,
persistence,
tenacity,
perseverance,
willpower,
boldness,
firmness,
staying power,
stubbornness,
strength of character,
constancy,
single-mindedness,
earnestness,
obstinacy,
steadfastness,
doggedness,
relentlessness,
strength of will,
resoluteness,
indomitability,
staunchness
in the sense of dynamism
Definition
great energy or enthusiasm
a situation that calls for dynamism and new thinking
Synonyms
energy,
go (informal),
drive,
push (informal),
initiative,
enterprise,
pep,
zip (informal),
vigour,
zap (slang),
welly (slang),
get-up-and-go (informal),
brio,
liveliness,
forcefulness
in the sense of elbow
Definition
to push with one's elbow or elbows
They elbowed me out of the way.
Synonyms
push,
force,
crowd (informal),
shoulder,
knock,
bump,
shove,
nudge,
jostle,
hustle
in the sense of encourage
Definition
to stimulate (something or someone) by approval or help
She encouraged her to demand a pay rise.
Synonyms
urge,
persuade,
prompt,
spur,
coax,
incite,
egg on,
abet
in the sense of energy
Definition
intensity or vitality of action or expression
At 65 years old, her energy is wonderful.
Synonyms
liveliness,
life,
drive,
fire,
spirit,
determination,
pep,
go (informal),
zip (informal),
vitality,
animation,
vigour,
verve,
zest,
resilience,
welly (slang),
get-up-and-go (informal),
élan,
brio,
vivacity,
vim,
zeal
in the sense of enterprise
Definition
boldness and energy
His trouble is that he lacks enterprise.
Synonyms
initiative,
energy,
spirit,
resource,
daring,
enthusiasm,
push (informal),
imagination,
drive,
pep,
readiness,
vigour,
zeal,
ingenuity,
originality,
eagerness,
audacity,
boldness,
welly (slang),
get-up-and-go (informal),
alertness,
resourcefulness,
gumption (informal),
adventurousness,
imaginativeness
in the sense of force
Definition
to propel or drive despite resistance
The extra weight of the crash helmet forced my head backwards.
Synonyms
push,
thrust,
propel
in the sense of get-up-and-go
Definition
energy or drive
She's got more get-up-and-go than anyone I know.
Synonyms
energy,
drive,
spirit,
life,
push (informal),
strength,
pep,
zip (informal),
vitality,
stamina,
vigour,
zeal,
verve,
zest,
welly (slang),
vivacity,
liveliness,
vim,
forcefulness
in the sense of go
Definition
the quality of being active and energetic
Considering her age, she still has a lot of go in her.
Synonyms
energy,
life,
drive,
spirit,
pep,
vitality,
vigour,
verve,
welly (slang),
force,
get-up-and-go (informal),
oomph (informal),
brio,
vivacity
in the sense of go ahead
The board will vote today on whether to go ahead with the plan.
Synonyms
continue,
begin,
go on,
advance,
progress,
proceed,
go forward
Additional synonyms
in the sense of go on
Definition
to continue or proceed
the necessity for the war to go on
Synonyms
continue,
last,
stay,
proceed,
carry on,
keep going
in the sense of gumption
Definition
common sense or initiative
He didn't have the gumption to seize the opportunity when it came up.
Synonyms
common sense,
sense,
ability,
spirit,
initiative,
enterprise,
wit(s),
savvy (slang),
acumen,
nous (British, slang),
get-up-and-go (informal),
cleverness,
resourcefulness,
shrewdness,
discernment,
sagacity,
horse sense,
astuteness,
mother wit
in the sense of hustle
Definition
to make (someone) move by pushing or jostling them
The guards hustled Harry out of the car.
Synonyms
jostle,
force,
push,
crowd (informal),
rush,
hurry,
thrust,
elbow,
shove,
jog,
bustle,
impel
in the sense of hype
Definition
to market or promote (a commodity) using intensive or exaggerated publicity
We had to hype the film to attract the financiers.
Synonyms
publicize,
push,
promote,
advertise,
build up,
plug (informal),
puff (up),
talk up (informal)
in the sense of impel
Definition
to urge or force (a person) to do something
I felt impelled to go on speaking.
Synonyms
force,
move,
compel,
drive,
require,
push,
influence,
urge,
inspire,
prompt,
spur,
stimulate,
motivate,
oblige,
induce,
prod,
constrain,
incite,
instigate,
goad,
actuate
in the sense of incite
Definition
to stir up or provoke to action
He incited his fellow citizens to take revenge.
Synonyms
provoke,
encourage,
drive,
excite,
prompt,
urge,
spur,
stimulate,
set on,
animate,
rouse,
prod,
stir up,
inflame,
instigate,
whip up,
egg on,
goad,
impel,
foment,
put up to,
agitate for or against
in the sense of influence
Definition
to persuade or induce
The conference influenced us to launch the campaign.
Synonyms
persuade,
move,
prompt,
urge,
counsel,
induce,
incline,
dispose,
arouse,
sway,
rouse,
entice,
coax,
incite,
instigate,
predispose,
impel,
prevail upon
in the sense of initiative
Definition
enterprise
He was disappointed by her lack of initiative.
Synonyms
enterprise,
drive,
push (informal),
energy,
spirit,
resource,
leadership,
ambition,
daring,
enthusiasm,
pep,
vigour,
zeal,
originality,
eagerness,
dynamism,
boldness,
welly (slang),
inventiveness,
get-up-and-go (informal),
resourcefulness,
gumption (informal),
adventurousness
in the sense of jostle
Definition
to bump or push roughly
We spent an hour jostling with the crowds as we did our shopping.
Synonyms
push,
press,
crowd (informal),
shake,
squeeze,
thrust,
butt,
elbow,
bump,
scramble,
shove,
jog,
jolt,
throng,
hustle,
joggle
in the sense of manhandle
Definition
to move something by manpower rather than by machinery
The three of us manhandled the dinghy out of the shed.