at the push of a button

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the push of a button" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that can be done easily or instantly with minimal effort, often referring to technology or automation. Example: "With our new app, you can access all your files at the push of a button."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Insulin would be available at the push of a button.

The New York Times

Can democracy spread at the push of a button?

The Guardian

At the push of a button, it removes "visual distractions" from web articles.

The Guardian

But they will take you where you want to go at the push of a button.

The Guardian - Tech

In a war won at the push of a button, bravery counts for nothing.

The Guardian

Smartphone-guided attendants park and retrieve your car at the push of a button.

The New York Times - Tech

The arrangement was convenient — the super was always right there, at the push of a button.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Multiple imputation should not be regarded as a routine technique to be applied at the push of a button whenever possible specialist statistical help should be obtained.

British Medical Journal

At the same time the drivers interpret a sudden full squeeze as the push of a virtual button.

Stanford University

The push of a button is what triggers the meal-making process today at Spyce.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Upshifts are made with the push of a button.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the push of a button" to emphasize the convenience and simplicity of an action, especially when referring to technological features or automated processes.

Common error

Avoid using "at the push of a button" in situations where the action doesn't involve technology or automation. Using it too broadly can dilute its impact and make your writing sound cliché.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the push of a button" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the ease and speed with which an action can be performed. Ludwig shows it's a common phrase used to highlight convenience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at the push of a button" is a common and effective way to describe the ease and immediacy of an action, particularly when technology is involved. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. As evidenced by the numerous examples, it's most frequently found in news and media, but also appears in science and academic writing. To ensure clarity and impact, use the phrase in contexts where technology or automation truly simplifies an action. While readily understood, overuse in non-technical situations can diminish its effectiveness. When using the phrase, bear in mind Ludwig’s finding that alternatives like "with a single click" or "on demand" can provide nuanced variations to capture the precise meaning you intend.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a single click

Focuses on the action of clicking, commonly associated with computers or digital interfaces.

with one click

Emphasizes the simplicity and speed of the action with a single click.

with a tap

Highlights the action of tapping, often related to touch screen devices.

with a touch

Suggests a simple action of touching, highlighting ease of use.

on demand

Indicates that something is available immediately when requested or needed.

instantaneously

Stresses the immediate nature of an action or result.

immediately

Focuses on the quickness and immediacy of something happening.

at your fingertips

Emphasizes accessibility and ease of access, suggesting readily available resources.

in an instant

Highlights the speed at which something occurs.

with minimal effort

Stresses the lack of difficulty or exertion required.

FAQs

What does "at the push of a button" mean?

The phrase "at the push of a button" means something can be done very easily or instantly, often thanks to technology or automation.

How can I use "at the push of a button" in a sentence?

You might say, "The app allows you to order groceries "at the push of a button"", emphasizing the ease of ordering.

What can I say instead of "at the push of a button"?

Alternatives include "with a single click", "on demand", or "immediately", depending on the specific context.

Is "at the push of a button" formal or informal?

The phrase "at the push of a button" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it's more common in news and general writing than in strictly academic or scientific writing.