arms to push

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arms to push" is not a standard expression in written English and may be unclear without context.
It could be used in a context where someone is describing the physical action of using their arms to exert force or push something away. Example: "He used his arms to push the heavy door open."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Straighten arms to push up and repeat eight-12 times.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Upon impact, he said, "I used my arms to push him away from me".

The New York Times

They would jump in feet first, then flail their arms to push the stinking mess away from their faces.

The New York Times

When she got out of her chair, he said, he noted that she had not used her arms to push herself up.

The New Yorker

The women, in white and red or blue, moved in deliberate unison, as did the bare-chested men, who used their arms to push forward and contract back, sending their bodies into ripples of motion.

The New York Times - Arts

"I had to use both hands and all the strength in my arms to push forward to try and get some speed.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Evans said he used his left arm to push him away, in an instantaneous move "to defend myself, to get him away from me".

Independent

The team has also, for now, ruled out trying to use the arm to push away the sand or nudge a rock under one of the wheels.

The New York Times - Science

If you find water becoming extremely hot (or cold), exit tub promptly while using a sweeping motion with one arm to push shower curtain aside.

The New Yorker

But the seven-minute video seems to contradict the officers' account: It does not show Mr. Halevy striking either officer, though he does pull away from Officer Vega, using an arm to push off the officer and break free.

The New York Times

If the brain can persist in thinking, on some level, that it still has a left arm to push off with, Kuiken reasons, why not give those thoughts a muscle to flex?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical actions, ensure that using the phrase "arms to push" clearly conveys the intended meaning, as it might not be universally understood. Providing additional context can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "arms to push" when the intent is to describe emotional encouragement or metaphorical advancement. This phrase is best suited for literal, physical pushing actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "arms to push" functions as an infinitive phrase describing a purpose. It specifies the intent or action related to using one's arms. Ludwig AI suggests adding context to enhance clarity, as seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

24%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "arms to push" is an uncommon but acceptable way to describe the action of using one's arms to exert force. While grammatically sound, Ludwig AI indicates that adding context can improve clarity. It is most frequently found in news and media, wiki pages and scientific articles, and the phrase maintains a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates a physical pushing action to avoid misinterpretation. Consider alternatives like "use arms to shove" or "employ arms to advance" for more specific nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

use arms for propulsion

Focuses on the function of arms in providing forward motion.

employ arms to advance

Emphasizes a strategic or intentional use of arms.

leverage arms to propel

Highlights the mechanical advantage gained by using arms.

utilize arms to thrust

Suggests a forceful or sudden pushing action.

arms assisting in pushing

Describes the role of arms as secondary support during a pushing action.

arms aiding the push

Similar to the previous, but more concise and general.

arms facilitating movement

Broader term emphasizing the arms' role in enabling any kind of motion.

using arms to press onward

Emphasizes continuous application of force with arms for forward progression.

arms employed for forward movement

Highlights the purpose-driven application of arm strength for motion.

arms for generating thrust

Focuses on arms as generators of propulsive force.

FAQs

How can I use "arms to push" in a sentence?

Use "arms to push" when describing a physical action where someone uses their arms to exert force. For example, "He used his arms to push the car out of the mud."

What are some alternatives to "arms to push"?

You can use alternatives like "use arms to shove", "use arms to propel", or "employ arms to advance" depending on the context.

Is "arms to push" grammatically correct?

While not a standard idiomatic expression, "arms to push" is grammatically acceptable when used to describe the action of using one's arms for pushing. Ludwig AI suggests it might benefit from additional context for clarity.

When should I avoid using "arms to push"?

Avoid using "arms to push" in contexts where you're describing metaphorical support or encouragement. Stick to literal situations involving physical force, or explore alternatives such as "assist with effort" or "aid in progress" for abstract concepts.