push around

USAGE SUMMARY

"push around" is correct and usable in written English.
Depending on the context, it can mean to intimidate or to order someone (usually unjustly) to do something. Example: "The manager always tries to push around the employees, telling them what to do without considering their opinions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"He's more deliberate; he's not somebody you can push around.

The New York Times

Just be cool there at the front, don't push around".

The Guardian - Film

Sacks of potatoes were easier and much cheaper to push around than people would have been.

The Economist

The rating agencies are one moving piece in the machine that they can push around.

The Guardian - Opinion

Conventional cotton towels seem to push around more water than they absorb.

The New York Times - Food

Mr. Fuss loves to push around things he can't completely control.

The New York Times - Arts

I will push around not only the Qatari government but the British government too".

The Guardian

The professionals at the Bureau of Census take enormous pride in their nonpartisan approach, and they would not be easy to push around by any party's leadership.

The New Yorker

This is a chance to make sure that this board is something the accountants can never push around".

Forbes

The Atlas beetle can push around 850 times its weight.

HuffPost

"The Republican operatives who push around know it's not real.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "push around", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "Bully" is more direct, while "manipulate" implies a more subtle approach. Choose the word that best fits the context.

Common error

Avoid using "push around" when describing literal physical movement. It's primarily used to describe mistreatment or bullying, not simply moving something. For literal movement, use "push", "shove", or "maneuver".

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "push around" functions primarily as a verb denoting the act of bullying, mistreating, or dominating someone, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples showing it in contexts of unfair treatment and control. It describes an action performed upon another person.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "push around" is a common phrasal verb primarily used to describe the act of bullying or mistreating someone. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral to informal in register, it's important to consider the specific nuance you intend to convey and choose the most appropriate word for the situation. Be mindful not to use "push around" in literal, physical contexts. Alternative phrases such as "bully", "dominate", and "intimidate" can offer more precise connotations depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

boss around

An informal term for giving orders and being overly authoritative.

bully

A more direct and forceful term for intimidating or mistreating someone.

dominate

Implies control and authority, often in a competitive context.

intimidate

Focuses on instilling fear to control someone's actions.

coerce

Suggests using pressure or threats to force someone to do something.

manipulate

Implies skillful control, often through indirect or deceptive means.

browbeat

Suggests using stern or intimidating language to pressure someone.

strong-arm

Implies using force or threats to achieve a goal.

steamroller

Metaphorically means to overwhelm or ignore opposition.

bulldoze

To aggressively clear obstacles, often disregarding others' feelings or rights.

FAQs

What does it mean to "push someone around"?

To "push someone around" means to bully, mistreat, or dominate someone, often by giving unfair orders or intimidating them.

What are some synonyms for "push around"?

Synonyms for "push around" include "bully", "dominate", "intimidate", "coerce", and "manipulate". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "push around" in formal writing?

While "push around" is widely understood, it's generally more appropriate for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using synonyms like "dominate" or "coerce" for a more professional tone.

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

You can use "push around" in a sentence like this: "The manager tries to push the employees around by giving them unreasonable demands".