What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
propel
Example
The engine propels the car forward. [propels: verb]
Example
The wind propelled the sailboat across the lake. [propelled: past tense]
shove
Example
He shoved the door open with his shoulder. [shoved: past tense]
Example
She shoved her way through the crowd to get to the front. [shove: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shove is more commonly used than propel in everyday language. Shove is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while propel is less common and more specific to certain situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between propel and shove?
Neither propel nor shove is particularly formal or informal. Both words can be used in a variety of contexts and formality levels, depending on the situation and tone of the speaker.
