Push the boundaries

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Push the boundaries" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when encouraging innovation, creativity, or challenging the status quo in various contexts, such as art, science, or personal growth. Example: "In her latest project, she aims to push the boundaries of traditional design and explore new materials."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Push the boundaries of taste.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Push the boundaries of love and acceptance.

Huffington Post

But we still push the boundaries".

The New York Times

We do push the boundaries.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We are there to push the boundaries.

The Guardian

We want to push the boundaries.

The Guardian - Sport

Similarly, your records push the boundaries..

The Guardian - Music

"Every time we buy we push the boundaries.

The Guardian - Business

But legislatures need to push the boundaries of reform.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Some comedians push the boundaries in the name of entertainment.

Independent

She was keen to push the boundaries of the genre.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Push the boundaries", clearly define the area where limits are being tested. This provides context and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "Push the boundaries" in overly simplistic situations. Opt for more direct language if the context doesn't involve genuine innovation or challenge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Push the boundaries" functions as a verb phrase that often acts as the predicate of a sentence. According to Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and frequently used. Its function is to describe an action that aims to exceed existing limits or norms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Push the boundaries" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies the act of exceeding existing limits or norms. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to encourage innovation and progress. Predominantly found in news, business, and scientific contexts, it carries a neutral to professional tone. While the phrase is considered grammatically correct, it's important to ensure it is not overused in overly simplistic or inappropriately informal contexts. Alternative phrases include "extend the limits" and "challenge the norms". Given its widespread use and clear meaning, it remains a valuable phrase for expressing the pursuit of innovation and improvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Extend the limits

Focuses on the act of extending, suggesting a physical or measurable increase.

Challenge the norms

Emphasizes questioning and confronting established standards.

Transcend limitations

Implies rising above or going beyond existing restrictions.

Surpass expectations

Highlights exceeding what is anticipated or predicted.

Redefine the parameters

Suggests changing or altering the established limits or rules.

Break new ground

Focuses on pioneering or innovating in a particular field.

Innovate beyond convention

Stresses creating new ideas outside of traditional practices.

Outstrip the standard

Implies exceeding the established level of quality or performance.

Go beyond the pale

This idiom suggests exceeding acceptable limits of behavior or taste.

Challenge the status quo

Emphasizes a direct confrontation with existing conditions or power structures.

FAQs

How can I use "Push the boundaries" in a sentence?

You can use "Push the boundaries" to describe efforts to exceed current limitations, such as "The company aims to "push the boundaries" of artificial intelligence in healthcare".

What are some alternatives to "Push the boundaries"?

Alternatives include "extend the limits", "challenge the norms", or "transcend limitations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "Push the boundaries" formal or informal?

"Push the boundaries" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it's often found in professional or news settings when discussing innovation or progress.

What does it mean to "Push the boundaries" of something?

To "Push the boundaries" means to go beyond the current limits or accepted norms of something, often in an effort to innovate or improve.