Pushing: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable for general situations where a force is applied to move something or someone, either physically or figuratively.

• She was pushing the stroller through the park
• He's pushing for stricter safety regulations at work

Implies a rough or violent effort to push someone or something, often with a negative connotation.

• He shoved his way through the crowded hallway
• She shoved the door open, angry and frustrated

Best used when applying force steadily on a surface or when urging someone to take action or make a decision.

• He pressed the button to start the machine
• The reporter pressed the politician for more answers

Used when referring to moving something forward, often with force or momentum. Commonly used in mechanical or scientific contexts.

• The rocket engines propel the spacecraft into orbit
• Her determination propelled her to win the race

Used when describing a sudden or forceful push, often in a more aggressive or dynamic context.

• The knight thrust his sword into the enemy
• She thrust the paperwork into his hands, demanding immediate attention

Use when someone is applying force or effort to move something or someone, often used in a physical context. Can imply persistence and sometimes has a negative connotation if it feels too aggressive.

• She kept pushing the heavy door until it finally opened
• He's always pushing his ideas on others

Applied when someone is giving support, confidence, or hope to someone else. It has a positive and nurturing connotation.

• Her parents always encourage her to pursue her dreams
• The coach encouraged the team to keep practicing

Applied when someone strongly advises or tries to persuade someone to do something. It denotes a sense of urgency and importance, and can sometimes feel forceful.

• The doctor urged him to quit smoking
• She urged her friend to apply for the job

Used when someone is providing a reason or incentive to do something, often to inspire action or effort. It has a positive connotation.

• The inspiring speech motivated the students to work harder
• Rewards motivated him to complete his tasks on time

Used when someone causes or brings about an action or feeling by giving a reminder or cue. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

• The teacher's question prompted a lively discussion
• Seeing the advertisement prompted him to buy the product

This word is often used when describing the physical act of moving something away from oneself or applying force to move an object.

• She was pushing the heavy cart down the aisle.
• He kept pushing the door, but it wouldn't budge.

Effort describes the use of physical or mental energy to achieve something. It emphasizes the work or exertion put into an activity.

• She put a lot of effort into completing the project.
• Running a marathon takes considerable effort.

Thrust implies a strong, sudden push or drive. It can describe both physical movements and figurative actions like aggressively pursuing a goal.

• He thrust the spear forward.
• The company's thrust for market dominance is evident.

Drive can describe a strong motivation or ambition to achieve something. It can also refer to the act of operating a vehicle.

• Her drive to succeed is impressive.
• They went for a drive in the countryside.

Impulse is a sudden desire or inclination to act without thinking. It can also refer to a quick, often involuntary movement or reaction.

• He bought the gift on an impulse.
• She felt an impulse to laugh during the meeting.