What are the definitions of “push through”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To make something happen or succeed despite difficulties or opposition.
He is determined to push the bill through Parliament.
- 2To make something happen or be accepted, especially by using force or authority.
He would be horrified if ministers tried to push through tougher union laws.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “push through”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb push through is to make something happen or succeed despite difficulties or opposition. It often refers to overcoming challenges or resistance to achieve a goal or complete a task.
What are the different verb forms of “push through”?
| Root Verb | push through |
| Third Person Singular Present | pushes through |
| Present Participle | pushing through |
| Simple Past | pushed through |
| Past Participle | pushed through |
Example
She pushed through her fear and gave the presentation.
Example
He pushes through the pain to finish the race.
Example
They are pushing through the obstacles to reach their goal.
Example
The team pushed through the difficulties and won the game.
Example
The legislation was pushed through despite opposition.
What kind of phrasal verb is “push through”?
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 through” 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 government pushed through the new law.
Example
She pushed the proposal through despite the challenges.
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 through” 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 government pushed through the new law.
Example
She pushed the proposal through despite the challenges.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “push through”?
Good things to know
Does “push through” have an informal or formal tone?
Push through is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or political discussions.
