What are the definitions of “push for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To advocate or urge strongly for something.
He’s pushing us for a decision by tomorrow.
- 2To advocate or strive for something.
They continue to push for more pay.
- 3Advocate strongly for something.
We are pushing for a ban on nuclear testing.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “push for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb push for is to advocate or urge strongly for something. It means that someone is trying to persuade others to support a particular idea, decision, or action.
What are the different verb forms of “push for”?
| Root Verb | push for |
| Third Person Singular Present | pushes for |
| Present Participle | pushing for |
| Simple Past | pushed for |
| Past Participle | pushed for |
Example
She always pushes for equal rights.
Example
He pushes for a healthier lifestyle.
Example
They are pushing for a change in the company policy.
Example
Last year, they pushed for a new playground in the neighborhood.
Example
The community has pushed for better public transportation for years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “push for”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“push for” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The environmental group pushed for stricter regulations.
Example
She pushed for a promotion at work.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“push for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The environmental group pushed for stricter regulations.
Example
She pushed for a promotion at work.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “push for”?
Good things to know
Does “push for” have an informal or formal tone?
Push for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings such as business meetings, academic discussions, or political debates.
