a small push

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small push" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor encouragement or nudge needed to motivate someone or something to take action. Example: "Sometimes, all it takes is a small push to get someone to pursue their dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

The acquittal was a small push back.

The New Yorker

A few moments later, Lewin sent the ball swinging with a small push, shattering the glass.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So Sachs's argument in some sense is that a small push can have big effects.

The Economist

"It's not a jump, it's a small push with your toes".

The New Yorker

All the good stuff requires a small push or pedal to access, but it's all easy enough to find if you're armed with a map.

The Guardian - Travel

"It's not a jump, it's a small push with your toes". Watching weeks of rehearsals for the Barclays Center show, I saw a dancer fall improperly only once.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Mary Dunleavy, the Leïla, has a lovely clear soprano; Yeghishe Manucharyan, as Nadir, a small, pushed, but reasonably fluid tenor; and Emmanuel Plasson captures the languorous sensuality of the lovely music.

The New York Times

When it came to music, Greg was like a boat on a still pond — one small push from his parents and he'd glide on toward the goal.

The New York Times - Magazine

In the frictionless vacuum of space, a small, sustained push over a long time adds up to a lot of speed.

The New Yorker

I think of salting as a series of small pushes rather than one great shove.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"This is only a small group pushing back against intense shooting".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small push" when describing the minimal amount of effort or encouragement needed to initiate an action or change.

Common error

Avoid using "a small push" when a significant effort or intervention is actually required. Ensure the phrase accurately reflects the scale of the required action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small push" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a minor application of force or encouragement, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small push" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe minimal effort or encouragement needed to initiate action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable across various contexts, particularly in news, wiki, and science. Related phrases like "a gentle nudge" or "a slight impetus" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the scale of the effort involved, avoiding overstatements. By considering these guidelines, writers can effectively and appropriately use "a small push" in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a gentle nudge

Implies an even lighter, more subtle encouragement than "a small push".

a slight impetus

Focuses on the initial force or motivation, emphasizing the start of an action.

a little encouragement

Highlights the supportive aspect, suggesting emotional rather than physical assistance.

a mild prod

Similar to nudge, but can sometimes imply a slightly more insistent action.

a minimal effort

Shifts the focus to the amount of work required, rather than the act of pushing.

a light shove

More physical than encouragement, but still implies a gentle application of force.

a tiny boost

Emphasizes the positive outcome of the action, suggesting an increase in momentum or performance.

a starting incentive

Highlights the role of motivation and reward in initiating action.

a fractional advance

Focuses on a minimal increase in progress or development.

a marginal adjustment

Suggests a small change or modification to initiate a different direction.

FAQs

How can I use "a small push" in a sentence?

You can use "a small push" to describe a minor action that initiates a larger process. For example, "Sometimes "a small push" is all it takes to get a project started."

What's a good alternative to "a small push"?

Alternatives include "a gentle nudge", "a slight impetus", or "a little encouragement", depending on the context.

Is "a small push" formal or informal?

"A small push" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends on the surrounding language and the specific situation.

Can "a small push" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "a small push" is often used metaphorically to describe a minimal amount of influence, motivation, or force that leads to a significant change or outcome.