push to the limit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'push to the limit' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in the context of challenging yourself or someone else to reach their potential or to try something difficult or extreme. For example, "I'm determined to push to the limit and achieve my goals this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

"You don't have to push to the limit because of the guy behind you.

The New York Times - Sports

"Kids always push to the limit of what's permitted in a society".

The New York Times - Style

We will push to the limit, as we have done since the start of the year".

Independent

I just had to push to the limit and wait for the team to give you the info.

The Guardian - Sport

"They are race drivers and they will push to the limit and that is part of what their DNA is.

The New York Times - Sports

That's all I was doing, just trying to concentrate and not push to the limit or the tires would wear out near the end".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Cox finds parallels between her own push to the limits and Amundsen's a century earlier.

The New York Times - Books

"Tyre competition would help F1 just because everyone will push to the limits," he said.

BBC

We kept getting pushed to the limit.

The Guardian - Sport

"They've been pushed to the limit….

The New Yorker

Pushed to the limit, he made a wrong decision.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "push to the limit" in your writing, consider the specific context to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of challenging boundaries or maximizing potential. Be mindful of whether you're referring to physical, mental, or abstract limits.

Common error

Avoid using "push to the limit" when simply describing ordinary effort or progress. This phrase is best reserved for situations involving significant challenge, risk, or intense dedication. Overusing it can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push to the limit" functions as an idiomatic expression. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes the act of challenging oneself or others to reach the highest level of performance, endurance, or capability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

22%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "push to the limit" is a common and grammatically correct idiomatic phrase that describes challenging boundaries and maximizing potential. As Ludwig AI points out, it's applicable in both formal and informal contexts, although it is most prevalent in news and media. While the phrase can effectively convey the idea of intense effort and striving, avoid overusing it in situations involving ordinary progress. Instead, use alternatives like "strive for excellence" or "test the boundaries" to tailor your message to the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

test the boundaries

More directly conveys the concept of exploring what is possible.

stretch oneself

Conveys the idea of expanding one's capabilities and comfort zone.

go the extra mile

Implies exceeding expectations and putting in additional effort, subtly different from testing boundaries.

reach peak performance

Highlights achieving the highest level of capability, rather than exceeding known limits.

challenge oneself

Highlights the act of self-imposed difficulty, without explicitly mentioning limits.

strive for excellence

Focuses on achieving high standards through dedicated effort, rather than necessarily exceeding a boundary.

leave it all on the field

Specifically relates to physical exertion, signifying maximum effort and commitment.

maximize potential

Focuses on fully developing one's abilities, not necessarily going beyond perceived boundaries.

exceed expectations

Emphasizes surpassing anticipated outcomes, rather than exploring boundaries.

operate at full capacity

Focuses on maximizing output within existing capabilities, without exceeding limits.

FAQs

How can I use "push to the limit" in a sentence?

You can use "push to the limit" to describe someone testing their boundaries, as in "The athlete wanted to "push to the limit" during training to improve their performance".

What are some alternatives to "push to the limit"?

Alternatives include "strive for excellence", "go the extra mile", or "test the boundaries" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "push to the limit" formal or informal?

"Push to the limit" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's often found in sports, motivational speaking, or discussions about overcoming challenges.

What does it mean to say someone is "pushed to the limit"?

When someone is "pushed to the limit", it means they've been challenged to the point where their abilities or resources are severely strained or tested.