PUSH FOR

National Parks

📖 Definition

To urge strongly, often repeatedly, for something to be done or achieved, generally involving advocacy for a specific cause or goal.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To urge strongly, often repeatedly, for something to be done or achieved, generally involving advocacy for a specific cause or goal.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
Can split the verb and particle (e.g., push the issue for).
Register
Neutral
Used in both formal and informal contexts with little change in tone.
Transitive
Yes
Takes a direct object (e.g., push for reforms).

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple push for They push for better working conditions.
Past Simple pushed for She pushed for policy changes last year.
Present Continuous pushing for They are pushing for a new initiative.
Present Perfect have pushed for They have pushed for an increase in funding for years.

💡 When to Use

Political advocacy
Use when discussing efforts to promote legislative or social change, particularly in government or public policy.
Example: "Activists pushed for environmental reforms."
Business goals
Apply when discussing the pursuit of objectives within a business setting, like outreach or product development.
Example: "The team is pushing for improved quarterly results."
Personal ambitions
Helpful when talking about personal efforts to achieve individual or collective goals or aspirations.
Example: "She is pushing for a scholarship in her studies."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect object placement
❌ Wrong: They push the promotion for.
✅ Correct: They push for the promotion.
💡 Tip: Remember, 'for' often precedes the object.
Passive voice misuse
❌ Wrong: The reforms were pushed for by them.
✅ Correct: They pushed for the reforms.
💡 Tip: Active voice is typically clearer.
Incorrect phrasal verb use
❌ Wrong: They push to the change.
✅ Correct: They push for the change.
💡 Tip: Use 'for' not 'to' to indicate objective.
Practice

PUSH FOR - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

advocate for campaign for

Antonyms

oppose

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The board decided to ___ for a reduction in costs."

pull from
push for
leave out
ignore

"When you push for change, remember it is the persistent rain that softens the hardest stone over time."

In Context

In 1920, Alice Paul, a determined suffragette, tirelessly pushed for the passage of the 19th Amendment. Her relentless efforts, and those of many women like her, were pivotal in opening new pathways for equality. At first, their voices were marginalized, so they organized protests and rallies, commanding the nation's attention. Alice and her colleagues continually pushed for legislative change, refusing to let their movement wane after minor setbacks. Their dedication eventually caught the eye of influential politicians, some of whom initially dismissed their campaign. By pushing for broader support and leveraging media attention, they managed to gain the backing of a skeptical President Wilson, who eventually endorsed the amendment. In August 1920, their efforts bore fruit as the 19th Amendment was ratified, granting women the right to vote. This monumental change in American history was a testament to the power of continual advocacy and the courage of those who pushed for progress despite overwhelming odds. Alice Paul's legacy remains a reminder that systemic change often requires tireless effort and resilience from its advocates.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Push For

What is the origin of push for?

+
The phrase 'push for' originates from the physical action of pushing something toward a desired direction, adapted metaphorically over time to emphasize urging for abstract outcomes or goals.

Can push for be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Push for' is versatile, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it a valuable choice for varied communication needs, from business discussions to casual conversations.

What is the difference between push for and advocate for?

+
'Push for' can imply a more determined and continuous effort, while 'advocate for' suggests offering support or recommendation, often more formally, without necessarily implying repeated action.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

carry onpress onpull throughpump intopush out
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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