push them in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "push them in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are instructing someone to apply force to move objects into a particular space or area. Example: "To assemble the furniture, you need to push them in until they click into place."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both candidates would face similar constraints that would push them in the same direction.

The Economist

But very little can be done to push them in the right direction.

The New York Times

The two women said they were mainly seeking choreographers who could push them in new directions.

The New York Times - Arts

By having fewer counselors, we don't have people to help push them in the right direction.

The Guardian - Money

"We want to push them in the right direction," a French diplomat in Washington said.

The New York Times

We can drag them back from it or push them in.

The Guardian

I haven't tried to push them in any crazy new direction.

Harvard Business Review

"I have to be a little bit more privy to how I push them in terms of practice," he said.

The New York Times

The buttons are appropriately large, but you have to push them in exactly the right spot to activate them.

The New York Times

But if I have to encourage them, to push them in that direction, there is no way.

The New York Times - Science

The United States and China need not become enemies, though historical and political forces could push them in that direction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "push them in" in technical writing, ensure the context clearly specifies what 'them' refers to in order to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Push them in to secure the device", use "Push the locking pins in to secure the device".

Common error

Avoid using "push them in" when a more precise verb would improve clarity. For instance, instead of "push them in" when referring to data entry, consider using "enter", "input", or "submit" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push them in" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating a physical action of applying force to move something inward. Ludwig examples show its usage in contexts ranging from physical manipulation of objects to metaphorical influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "push them in" is a versatile phrase that can describe both physical actions and metaphorical influence. Ludwig's analysis shows that it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, media, and wiki contexts. While generally neutral, it's important to consider the specific context and audience to determine if a more precise or formal alternative would be more appropriate. The variety of examples available through Ludwig further demonstrates the phrase's adaptability and broad acceptance in English writing. The AI-powered analysis shows a common and correct phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

force them into

Implies a stronger degree of coercion or pressure compared to "push them in".

shove them into

Suggests a more abrupt or forceful action of moving something into a space.

guide them into

Indicates a gentler approach, focusing on leading someone or something into a particular direction.

direct them towards

Emphasizes the act of pointing or orienting towards a specific goal or location.

nudge them toward

Implies a subtle form of encouragement or influence to move in a certain direction.

coerce them into

Suggests using pressure or intimidation to make someone enter or comply.

insert them

A more neutral and technical term for placing something inside.

place them inside

A more general term for putting something within a confined space.

influence their decision

Focuses on affecting someone's choice, rather than physical movement.

motivate their participation

Highlights the act of inspiring or encouraging involvement.

FAQs

What does "push them in" mean?

The phrase "push them in" generally means to apply force to move objects into a particular space or area. It can also metaphorically mean to influence someone towards a certain direction or decision.

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

You can use "push them in" to describe a physical action, like "Push the buttons in to activate the device", or a metaphorical influence, like "We need to "nudge them toward" the right decision".

Which is a better alternative to "push them in"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "force them into", "guide them into", or "influence their decision". The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is "push them in" formal or informal?

The phrase "push them in" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more precise language may be preferred in highly formal settings. Consider alternatives if aiming for extreme formality.