to be pushed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be pushed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is being urged or compelled to take action or make a decision. Example: "I don't want to be pushed into making a choice before I'm ready."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It deserves to be pushed.

The Economist

I'm eager to be pushed hard.

The New York Times

The Pentagon will have to be pushed.

The New York Times

Not someone to be pushed around.

The New Yorker

That needs to be pushed through".

Independent

He doesn't really like to be pushed".

Independent

I'm not going to be pushed out.

The Guardian

"He doesn't want to be pushed around".

The New York Times

We don't want to be pushed out".

The New York Times

"The camera has to be pushed carefully".

The New York Times - Tech

Q. Did you need to be pushed?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "to be pushed" when you want to convey the idea of something being actively moved forward or someone being encouraged or forced to take action.

Common error

Ensure the context makes it clear who or what is doing the pushing. Vague usage can lead to confusion about the agent of the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be pushed" functions as a passive infinitive construction, often used to describe an action being done to a subject. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts where something needs to be advanced or someone is being influenced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to be pushed" is a common passive infinitive construction used to describe an action being performed on a subject, often implying external force or influence. With its grammatical correctness affirmed, as confirmed by Ludwig, it is frequently found in news and media contexts. The phrase conveys the necessity or possibility of an action, indicating something needs to be advanced or someone is being influenced. While its usage is generally neutral, writers should ensure clarity regarding who or what is doing the pushing to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be compelled

Focuses on the feeling of obligation or necessity.

to be driven

Emphasizes the force or energy behind the action.

to be urged

Highlights the act of encouraging or advising someone strongly.

to be advanced

Indicates progress or promotion.

to be motivated

Focuses on the reason or incentive for action.

to be influenced

Emphasizes the effect someone or something has on another.

to be pressured

Highlights the stress or urgency involved.

to be goaded

Focuses on instigation or provocation.

to be impelled

Emphasizes the inner force or drive.

to be hustled

Implies a sense of speed and efficiency.

FAQs

How can I use "to be pushed" in a sentence?

You can use "to be pushed" to describe something that is being moved forward or someone being encouraged to take action. For example, "The bill needs "to be pushed" through the legislature" or "He didn't want "to be pushed" into a decision".

What are some alternatives to "to be pushed"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "to be pushed" include "to be compelled", "to be urged", or "to be driven".

Is it better to use "to be pushed" or "to be propelled"?

While both phrases involve movement, "to be pushed" implies a more direct and often forceful action, whereas "to be propelled" suggests a driving force behind the movement. The best choice depends on the specific context. "The cart "to be pushed"" vs "The rocket "to be propelled"".

What does it mean when someone says they don't want "to be pushed around"?

When someone says they don't want "to be pushed around", it means they don't want to be bullied, manipulated, or treated disrespectfully. They are asserting their desire to be treated with fairness and consideration.