push the boundary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "push the boundary" is an acceptable and appropriate phrase in written English.
It generally implies pushing the limits or parameters of something. For example, "The researcher sought to push the boundary of knowledge by exploring new areas of research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

There's a type of person who wants to discover some new things, or to push the boundary a little.

The New York Times - Arts

"You get a new set of tools that let you attack a new set of problems, which let you push the boundary out," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

The next programme to push the boundary of what can be achieved with second screen was another Channel 4 show, the quiz Million Pound Drop.

The Guardian

Without being evangelical about it, I think Carey likes to push the boundary of how women are going to be portrayed".

The New York Times

We will explore how we can borrow from parallel engineering fields to push the boundary of patient care so that we can work toward eliminating preterm birth.

Seminars in Perinatology

If he could have pulled off an acceptably faithful illusion, he might have, but it wouldn't have slaked his deep thirst to push the boundary of physical human achievement.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

But we still push the boundaries".

The New York Times

We do push the boundaries.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We are there to push the boundaries.

The Guardian

We want to push the boundaries.

The Guardian - Sport

Similarly, your records push the boundaries..

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "push the boundary" when you want to emphasize innovation, progress, or the overcoming of limitations in a specific field or area. It works well when describing efforts to go beyond what is currently known or accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "push the boundary" in contexts where it has become a cliché, such as marketing slogans that lack genuine substance. Instead, opt for more specific and descriptive language that accurately reflects the unique innovation or advancement being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push the boundary" primarily functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI demonstrates that it is commonly used to describe the act of extending limits or challenging existing norms in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "push the boundary" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe exceeding limits, challenging norms, and fostering innovation. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage in News & Media, Science, and other contexts. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse in clichéd contexts. Consider alternatives like ""push the limits"" or ""break new ground"" for nuanced expression. The phrase carries a neutral register and serves to encourage progress and highlight advancement across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

push the limits

Replaces "boundary" with "limits", emphasizing the act of exceeding existing restrictions.

stretch the limits

Uses "stretch" instead of "push", suggesting an elongation or extension of existing boundaries.

expand the horizons

Focuses on broadening scope and perspective, rather than directly exceeding a limit.

break new ground

Highlights the act of pioneering and discovering previously uncharted territory.

advance the state of the art

More formal and technical, referring to improving existing technology or knowledge.

challenge the status quo

Implies questioning existing norms and conventions, with the aim of improvement.

go beyond conventional wisdom

Focuses on surpassing established knowledge and understanding.

redefine the parameters

Suggests altering the very definitions of what is possible or acceptable.

transcend limitations

Emphasizes overcoming inherent restrictions and constraints.

extend the envelope

Similar to "push the boundary" but uses more technical jargon, especially in fields like aviation.

FAQs

What does it mean to "push the boundary"?

To "push the boundary" means to extend the limits of what is possible, acceptable, or known. It often implies innovation, progress, and challenging existing conventions.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "push the boundary"?

The phrase "push the boundary" is appropriate when describing efforts to exceed current limitations or explore new possibilities in a particular field or area. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but avoid overuse in clichéd situations.

What are some alternatives to "push the boundary"?

Some alternatives to "push the boundary" include "push the limits", "stretch the limits", or "break new ground", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

How can I use "push the boundary" effectively in my writing?

To use "push the boundary" effectively, provide specific examples of the innovation or advancement being described. Avoid using it as a vague or generic statement. Instead, show how the boundary is being pushed and what the tangible results are.