push them for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "push them for" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used in the context of pushing someone for information or action. Example: The journalist pushed the politician for a clear answer on the controversial issue. In this example, "pushed" means to persistently ask or pressure the politician for a direct and definitive response.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Stevens did not push them for answers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Given what we know, it would make sense to expand theseprograms slowly -- and not push them for political ends.

The New York Times

He should call the leaders of today's football establishment to the White House and push them for comprehensive reform — to protect taxpayers, and people's sons.

The New York Times

And while family members were not about to fork over any of their DNA, neither did he push them for it, fearful perhaps of what it might prove.

The New York Times

"The teenage boys I see often say the girls push them for sex and expect them to ask them for sex and will bring it up if the boys don't ask," said Tabi Upton, a counselor at the Johnson Mental Health Center in Chattanooga, Tenn., who consults with 20 to 30 teenagers a month.

The New York Times - Style

England have strength at loosehead, with Alex Corbisiero poised to return from injury and Joe Marler showing his power in the autumn, but Mako can push them for a place by the time England travel to Cardiff for their Six Nations showdown in February.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

We should be pushing them for our time.

The New York Times

"We have to keep forward pushing them for the resignation.

The New York Times

Younger players are pushing them for their jobs.

The New York Times - Sports

He pushes them for detail at the same time as keeping them relaxed.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"He is shaking up Swiss companies and pushing them for immediate performance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "push them for" when you want to convey the idea of actively encouraging or urging someone to take action or provide something, especially when there might be some resistance or hesitation.

Common error

Avoid using "push them for" in highly formal or professional settings where a more diplomatic or nuanced approach is preferred. Opt for phrases like "encourage" or "request" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push them for" typically functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of urging, encouraging, or pressuring someone to do something or to provide something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct. The examples show its use in various contexts, from seeking reforms to obtaining information.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "push them for" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express the act of urging or encouraging someone toward a particular action or outcome. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase fits comfortably within news and media contexts but may require more nuanced alternatives in formal settings. While its frequency is uncommon, understanding its appropriate usage helps to effectively communicate the need for action or change. Alternatives like "pressure them for" or "urge them for" can subtly shift the tone and intensity of the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pressure them for

Emphasizes applying force or influence to obtain something.

urge them for

Implies a strong recommendation or encouragement.

press them for

Suggests a persistent effort to get something.

encourage them for

Indicates providing support and motivation.

lobby them for

Suggests influencing them, particularly in a political context.

persuade them for

Focuses on convincing through reasoning or argument.

prompt them for

Suggests initiating action or a response from them.

prod them for

Implies a gentle push or nudge to encourage action.

solicit them for

Focuses on formally requesting or asking them for something.

motivate them for

Implies inspiring or giving them a reason to act.

FAQs

How can I use "push them for" in a sentence?

You can use "push them for" to indicate urging someone to do something, as in, "The coach had to push the team for better performance".

What's a less direct way to say "push them for"?

Alternatives to "push them for" include "encourage them for" or "urge them for", which suggest a more supportive approach.

Is it appropriate to use "push them for" in professional communication?

While acceptable, in formal settings, consider alternatives like "request them for" or "invite them to" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "push them for" and "pressure them for"?

"Push them for" suggests active encouragement, while "pressure them for" implies a stronger, potentially coercive approach.