Throwback Thursday S1 #76 - Phrasal Verbs with "Push"
4Digest
This podcast lesson delves into the diverse meanings and applications of phrasal verbs incorporating "push." It begins by introducing the concept and then systematically examines several key phrases. "Push off" is explained as initiating movement, particularly for boats leaving a dock. "Push by" describes gently moving past someone, contrasting sharply with "push someone around," which signifies bullying or intimidation. The lesson then moves to phrases like "push limits" (working at the boundaries of something), "push ahead" (making determined progress), and "push along" (helping someone progress). Finally, it clarifies the uses of "push back" (resisting something) and "push for something" (persuading or convincing). Throughout, the lesson provides numerous examples to illustrate the meaning and usage of each phrasal verb in context.
Outlines
Introduction to Push Phrasal Verbs and Basic Meanings
This introductory section explains the concept of "push" phrasal verbs and their varied meanings beyond the literal definition of pushing.
Gentle vs. Aggressive Pushing: "Push By," "Push Off," and "Push Someone Around"
This section differentiates between the gentle act of "pushing by" someone and the aggressive act of "pushing someone around," also explaining the nautical meaning of "push off."
Progress and Boundaries: "Push Limits," "Push Ahead," and "Push Along"
This section explores phrasal verbs related to progress and exceeding limits, including "push limits," "push ahead," and "push along," highlighting their subtle differences in meaning and usage.
Resistance and Persuasion: "Push Back" and "Push For Something"
This section focuses on the phrasal verbs "push back" (resistance) and "push for something" (persuasion), providing examples to illustrate their usage in different contexts.
Keywords
Phrasal Verb
A phrase where a verb combines with a preposition or adverb to create a new meaning, often idiomatic. Example: "push off" (to depart).
Push Off
To begin moving, especially a boat from a dock. Implies leaving a safe or supported position.
Push By
To use a pushing motion to move past someone or something, usually in a crowded space. A gentle, polite action.
Push Someone Around
To bully or intimidate someone, using power to control or mistreat them. Negative connotation.
Push Limits
To work at the extreme boundaries of something, striving for innovation or exceeding current capabilities. Often used in technology or business.
Push Ahead
To make determined progress.
Push Along
To help someone or something else to progress.
Push Back
To resist or oppose something.
Push For Something
To persuade or convince someone to do something.
Q&A
What is the meaning of "push off" in the context of this lesson?
"Push off" means to begin moving, often used when a boat departs from a dock or safe place. It implies a departure from a point of support.
How does "push by" differ from "push someone around"?
"Push by" is a gentle action of moving past someone, while "push someone around" is bullying or mistreating them through the abuse of power.
What situations would you use the phrasal verb "push limits"?
"Push limits" is used when striving for innovation or exceeding current capabilities, often in fields like technology or business, to describe working at the extreme boundaries of something.
What is the difference between "push ahead" and "push along"?
"Push ahead" focuses on making personal progress, while "push along" involves helping someone or something else to make progress. Both imply forward movement.
Provide an example sentence using "push back."
"The employees pushed back against the new company policy," meaning they resisted or opposed the policy.
Show Notes
Table of contents
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