push the border

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "push the border" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is discussing expanding limits, boundaries, or pushing the envelope in various situations, such as creativity, innovation, or physical borders. Example: "The artist aims to push the border of traditional painting techniques by incorporating digital elements into her work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Bouchard said Brexit would provide a good opportunity to pull out of the agreement and push the border and migrants back to Kent.

The Guardian

Government officials have reportedly said Britain could threaten to review security cooperation with France if it tries to tear up Le Touquet and push the border from Calais into Kent.

The Guardian

The French foreign minister, Jean-Marc Ayrault, dismissed outright calls from politicians on the French right for a post-Brexit renegotiation of the Le Touquet accord that could push the border back to the Kent coast.

The Guardian

Indeed, if Turkey ever does join the E.U. – and while its prospects look dim today, who knows what a decade or two will bring – it will push the border of Europe further east than anyone but a few daydreaming geographers had ever imagined: from the volcanic shores of Iceland to the mountainous frontier that divides Turkey from Iran.

The New York Times

The question now is how far the GOP will push the border myth to get its way on immigration reform.

Huffington Post

Use your hand to lift and push the border over and onto the filling.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

However, Ankara has drawn criticism for its own inaction against the IS fighters now attempting to push the borders of its Islamic caliphate right onto Turkey's — and Europe's — doorstep.

Vice

In our study we show that insect galls create a distinct headspace which is different from the surrounding plant tissues and hence push the borders of their extended phenotype.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Instead of increasing physical inspections, some government officials and industry executives advocate a concept they call "pushing the border back".

The New York Times

Be sure to check out the adjacent, large stone watergate, dating from Dickens's day, which was a passageway to river docks before city officials pushed the border of the Thames southward in a bid for more real estate.

BBC

Owain once more regained the castles of Basingwerk and Rhuddlan and pushed the borders of Gwynedd to the estuary of the River Dee.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "push the border", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to physical borders, metaphorical boundaries, or limits of knowledge and innovation. For example, in technical contexts, use the phrase to imply innovation. However, if you are talking about geopolitics make sure that you are clear to prevent potential misinterpretations.

Common error

Be cautious when using "push the border" in abstract or metaphorical contexts without sufficient explanation. The phrase can become vague if the nature of the border being pushed is not clearly defined. Always provide specific details to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push the border" primarily functions as a verb phrase. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is used to describe the action of extending or challenging a limit, boundary, or edge. It is supported by examples in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "push the border" is grammatically correct and functions as a verb phrase that means to extend a limit or challenge a boundary. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is best used when the context clearly defines the nature of the border being referenced. While primarily found in news and media, and scientific contexts, "push the border" maintains a neutral register, suitable for a variety of communication styles. Related alternatives include "extend the boundary" and "expand the frontier". Make sure, therefore, that you specify context to ensure it is not misinterpreted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extend the boundary

Focuses on the act of making a border longer or wider.

expand the frontier

Emphasizes outward growth and exploration beyond established limits.

challenge the limits

Highlights the act of questioning and testing existing constraints.

exceed the boundaries

Implies going beyond what is considered normal or acceptable.

redefine the edge

Suggests altering the perception or definition of a limit or boundary.

broaden the scope

Refers to widening the range or extent of something.

stretch the confines

Focuses on making more room within existing restrictions.

advance the perimeter

Implies moving the outer boundary forward.

break new ground

Suggests doing something innovative and unprecedented.

transgress the line

Focuses on crossing a prohibited or moral boundary.

FAQs

How can "push the border" be used in a sentence?

You can use "push the border" to describe efforts to expand physical territories, challenge existing norms, or innovate in various fields. For example, "The company aims to push the border of technology with its new invention."

What are some alternatives to "push the border"?

Alternatives include "extend the boundary", "expand the frontier", or "challenge the limits", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "push the border" formal or informal?

"Push the border" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it is generally more suitable for neutral or professional communications rather than highly formal academic writing.

What does it mean to "push the border" in technology?

In the context of technology, to "push the border" means to innovate beyond current technological limitations, explore uncharted territories, and develop groundbreaking solutions.