push the bounds

USAGE SUMMARY

"push the bounds" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe an action that exceeds the limits of what is accepted or expected. For example: "The scientist pushed the bounds of discovery by finding a new way to measure light."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Technology

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Mr Tito's mission will push the bounds of space flight.

The Economist

"To push the bounds of new technology, we have to physically make things," he said.

The New York Times

The games, he said, also encourage people to push the bounds of accepted behavior.

The New York Times - Style

Demand is so strong that companies do not yet need to push the bounds of creativity to find a customer.

The Economist

Bair soon earned a reputation in the banking industry as an activist regulator who was willing to push the bounds of her agency's authority.

The New Yorker

While all Chinese news outlets answer to the propaganda authorities, publications often try to push the bounds of what can be reported, in part to win readers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Others have pushed the bounds too.

The Economist

The law's a mess, but Apple pushed the bounds of it more than anyone".

The New Yorker

But Mr. Asher, who pushed the bounds of objectlessness to its extreme, was a special case.

The New York Times - Arts

This season pushed the bounds of credibility — never more so than when a cellphone was involved.

The New York Times

Once, moviemakers considered anything longer than seven minutes -- the credits for "Titanic" and "Waterworld" were in that range -- to be pushing the bounds of propriety and audience patience.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "push the bounds" when you want to convey the idea of exceeding current limitations or exploring uncharted territories in a given field.

Common error

Avoid using "push the bounds" when you simply mean improving within existing parameters. This phrase is more suitable for actions that redefine those parameters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push the bounds" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the action of exceeding existing limits or boundaries. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in written English, suggesting it’s commonly understood and accepted.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Technology

20%

Sports

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Huffington Post

8%

Arts

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "push the bounds" is a common and acceptable idiom used to describe exceeding existing limits or exploring new possibilities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. It's particularly prevalent in news and media contexts, often referring to advancements in technology, sports, or artistic expression. While it conveys a sense of innovation, it's important to use it accurately, reserving it for situations where limits are truly being redefined, rather than simply improved upon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stretch the limits

Suggests testing how far something can go before breaking or failing.

extend the limits

Implies making existing limits more distant or comprehensive.

outstrip expectations

Highlights exceeding what is anticipated or predicted.

expand the boundaries

Focuses on expanding the limits, often in a more literal or spatial sense.

break new ground

Focuses on innovation and pioneering efforts in a specific field.

defy limitations

Emphasizes overcoming or resisting restrictions, highlighting a sense of rebellion.

redefine the parameters

Emphasizes changing the rules or conditions that define a situation.

challenge conventions

Highlights questioning and potentially changing established norms or practices.

transcend boundaries

Implies going beyond limits in a more profound or spiritual way.

venture into the unknown

Suggests exploring new and uncharted territories, often involving risk.

FAQs

How can I use "push the bounds" in a sentence?

You can use "push the bounds" to describe exceeding the limits of what is known, accepted, or possible. For example, "The new technology aims to "push the bounds" of medical science".

What are some alternatives to "push the bounds"?

Alternatives include "expand the boundaries", "extend the limits", or "stretch the limits", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "pushing the bounds" instead of "push the bounds"?

"Pushing the bounds" is a gerund form that can be used when the phrase acts as a noun. For example, "Pushing the bounds is essential for innovation", while "push the bounds" is used in an infinitive form.

What does it mean to "push the bounds" of something?

To "push the bounds" means to go beyond the current limits or boundaries of something. This can refer to knowledge, technology, creativity, or any other area where progress is possible.