push too hard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "push too hard" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to situations when someone deos something to the point of being excessive or overbearing. For example, "I had to remind my boss not to push too hard - we needed to get the project done, but not by cutting corners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We didn't push too hard.

The New York Times

Push too hard, and lenders might cut back on lending.

The New York Times

Even Lepage's lone defender didn't push too hard.

The New Yorker

"You try not to push too hard for results.

The New York Times - Sports

The government may not push too hard, either.

The Economist

"People can ask: 'Did the mayor push too hard?

The New York Times

However, China will not want to push too hard.

The Economist

"Don't push too hard," warned the Chinese waiter.

The New York Times - Magazine

But push too hard and you'll land in lock-up.

The New York Times

However, regulators must be careful not to push too hard for lower profitability.

The New York Times

"If you push too hard it could raise suspicions," Mr. Kim said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "push too hard", consider the context. Ensure it's clear what area the excessive force or pressure is being applied to. For instance, "Don't push too hard on the deadline" is more specific than simply "Don't push too hard."

Common error

Avoid using "push too hard" when the situation requires firm but gentle encouragement. Overusing this phrase can create a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of sensitivity rather than constructive motivation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push too hard" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a clause. Ludwig AI shows that it often modifies a verb indicating action, expressing the manner in which an action is performed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

43%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "push too hard" is a common and grammatically correct way to express excessive force or pressure. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase appears frequently in contexts ranging from news and media to wikis, indicating broad applicability. When writing, it's important to consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately conveys the intended meaning and doesn't create unintended negative connotations. Remember to use it when cautioning against overexertion or over-aggression in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

press too hard

Synonymous to "push too hard" focusing on applying pressure.

be too forceful

Directly indicates an excessive level of force.

exert excessive pressure

Focuses on the application of pressure, highlighting its excessiveness.

apply undue pressure

Highlights the inappropriateness of the pressure being applied.

be overly aggressive

Shifts the focus to the level of aggression, suggesting an inappropriate degree of forcefulness.

go overboard

Implies exceeding reasonable limits in effort or action.

overdo it

A more general expression for exceeding appropriate limits.

be overzealous

Implies excessive enthusiasm leading to pushing too far.

take it too far

Suggests exceeding acceptable limits or tolerance in an action or situation.

overstep boundaries

Suggests exceeding acceptable limits or norms.

FAQs

How can I use "push too hard" in a sentence?

You can use "push too hard" to describe situations where someone is being overly aggressive or forceful. For instance, "The negotiator started to "push too hard", jeopardizing the deal."

What does it mean to "push too hard" in negotiations?

In negotiations, to "push too hard" means to be overly demanding or aggressive, potentially damaging relationships or causing the other party to withdraw. It's about finding a balance between advocating for your interests and maintaining a positive dynamic.

Which is correct, "push too hard" or "push so hard"?

"Push too hard" implies excessive force or pressure, while "push so hard" simply indicates a great deal of effort. The correct choice depends on whether you're emphasizing excessiveness or intensity. Check the examples Ludwig provides for more context.

What are some alternative phrases for "push too hard"?

Alternatives include phrases like "exert excessive pressure", "be overly aggressive", or "go overboard", depending on the specific context. Each carries a slightly different nuance.