PUSH THROUGH

📖 Definition

To push through means to persevere through a difficult task or situation, exhibiting determination and resilience to overcome challenges.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To push through means to persevere through a difficult task or situation, exhibiting determination and resilience to overcome challenges.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
You can insert an object between 'push' and 'through'.
Register
Neutral
It is appropriate for both casual and formal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
It requires a direct object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple push through She pushes through every obstacle with determination.
Past Simple pushed through He pushed through his fears and succeeded.
Present Continuous pushing through They are pushing through the final stages of their project.
Present Perfect have pushed through We have pushed through numerous challenges to reach this point.

💡 When to Use

Facing a difficult project
Use when encountering challenges in completing a project, implying perseverance and determination.
Example: "We must push through this project deadline no matter the obstacles."
Experiencing personal challenges
Helpful when discussing personal struggles or difficulties, emphasizing resilience and fortitude.
Example: "She pushed through her personal challenges to achieve her dreams."
Overcoming societal barriers
Suitable when confronting societal norms or policies, focusing on change and progress.
Example: "Activists push through barriers to bring about social change."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect use of object placement
❌ Wrong: We pushed the proposal through.
✅ Correct: We pushed through the proposal.
💡 Tip: Remember, 'push through' goes before the object.
Using intransitively
❌ Wrong: She pushed through.
✅ Correct: She pushed through the difficulties.
💡 Tip: Always specify what is being pushed through.
Confusing with 'push into'
❌ Wrong: They pushed into the task.
✅ Correct: They pushed through the task.
💡 Tip: 'Push through' indicates overcoming, not entering.
Practice

PUSH THROUGH - 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

persevere overcome

Antonyms

give up

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"Despite the setbacks, they decided to ___ through and finish what they started."

push over
push through
push into
push ahead

"To push through adversity is to embrace growth, turning challenges into opportunities, a testament to resilience and determination."

In Context

In the late 18th century, Abigail Adams, wife of the second U.S. President John Adams, faced immense challenges as she advocated for women's rights. During her husband's presidency, Abigail constantly pushed through societal barriers. Corresponding with her husband, she persistently urged him to "remember the ladies," striving for inclusion in the new laws of the land. Despite living in an era that largely silenced women, Abigail's relentless pursuit of education for women and broader civil rights was unwavering. Her letters detailed her efforts to push through the prevailing gender norms, offering her perspective on issues such as slavery and politics. In 1798, when John Adams faced political turmoil, Abigail was a steadfast pillar, helping him push through the Alien and Sedition Acts' criticism. Her influence and advocacy significantly impacted social change, laying the groundwork for future generations. She continued to push through the limitations of her era, earning recognition as one of America's earliest feminists. Abigail Adams remains an inspiring figure, her legacy cemented by her ability to push through challenges, advocating tirelessly for justice and equality in times of great adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Push Through

What is the origin of push through?

+
The phrase 'push through' combines 'push', meaning to move forward with force, and 'through', indicating completion. It's a common expression used to convey resilience and determination to overcome obstacles, widely adopted in both formal and vernacular speech.

Can push through be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Push through' is versatile, used in both formal and informal settings. It conveys perseverance and is applicable in circumstances like business meetings or casual conversations about overcoming personal challenges, reflecting its neutrality in register.

What is the difference between push through and persevere?

+
While both mean to continue despite difficulties, 'push through' often implies active effort against obstacles, sometimes abruptly, while 'persevere' suggests steady and consistent endurance. The choice depends on the context's emphasis on force vs. persistence.
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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