Definition of Push (meaning 1 of 3 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Push
To use your hand or body to move something or someone away from you.
Detailed Definition of Push
To apply force to something to move it away from you or forward in a particular direction.
How to Pronounce Push
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable: push. The /ʊ/ vowel sounds like 'oo' in 'book', not 'oo' in 'boot'. The /ʃ/ sound is like 'sh' in 'shower'.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced with long 'u' /puːʃ/ instead of short /ʊ/; or without the /ʃ/ sound at the end.
Other Meanings of Push
“Push” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Push as a noun
An organized effort or strong attempt to achieve a goal or change something.
give it a push
#3 Push as a verb
To urge or try hard to convince someone to act or change.
push someone to do
Origin and Etymology of Push
From Old French 'pousser' meaning to push, thrust; possibly from Latin 'pulsare' meaning to beat or drive.
How to Use Push in a Sentence
Each example shows “push” in the meaning “To use your hand or body to move…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Please push the door gently to open it.”
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“The children pushed each other on the playground.”
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“The company is pushing new technology to improve productivity.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Push
Common Synonyms for Push
Smart Synonyms for Push — When to Use Each
- shove
- for aggressive or rough pushing motion
- press
- for pushing with steady continuous force
- thrust
- for sudden forceful pushing movement
Antonyms of Push
Common Collocations with Push
These phrases pair with “push” in everyday English:
- push a button
- push the door
- push forward
- push someone away
- push your luck
Common Mistakes When Using Push
Even fluent speakers slip up with “push”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She pushed the button and the bell ring.
- ✓ Correct: She pushed the button and the bell rang.
- Why: Use past tense 'rang' to match past tense 'pushed', not present tense 'ring'.
- ✗ Wrong: He is pushed the car down the hill.
- ✓ Correct: He is pushing the car down the hill.
- Why: Use 'is pushing' (present continuous) not 'is pushed' (passive). Passive means the car is being pushed by someone else.
Other Forms of Push
Frequently Asked Questions About Push
What is the meaning of "Push"?
To use your hand or body to move something or someone away from you.
How do you pronounce "Push"?
The IPA is /pʊʃ/. One syllable: push. The /ʊ/ vowel sounds like 'oo' in 'book', not 'oo' in 'boot'. The /ʃ/ sound is like 'sh' in 'shower'.
What part of speech is "Push"?
"Push" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Push"?
Common synonyms include shove, press, thrust.
How do you use "Push" in a sentence?
For example: "Please push the door gently to open it."