What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pushy
Example
I don't like pushy salespeople who won't take no for an answer. [pushy: adjective]
Example
She was being pushy and kept interrupting me while I was talking. [pushy: gerund or present participle]
determined
Example
He was determined to finish the race, even though he was exhausted. [determined: adjective]
Example
She showed her determination by studying every night for the exam. [determination: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Determined is more commonly used than pushy in everyday language. Determined is a positive trait that is often praised, while pushy is a negative trait that is generally frowned upon.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pushy and determined?
While determined can be used in both formal and informal contexts, pushy is typically associated with a more informal and negative tone.