to push back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to push back" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is most commonly used when someone needs to reject an idea or proposal, for example: "The residents pushed back against the proposed budget cuts." It can also be used in a figurative sense, for example: "The company pushed back against the new industry regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have to push back.

The New York Times

He will need to push back hard.

The New York Times

But we have ways to push back.

The Economist

Gardeners, he said, "need to push back.

The New York Times

Some hospitals are beginning to push back.

The New York Times

"We are trying to push back".

Independent

Now it's time to push back".

The New York Times

"We encourage our reporters to push back.

The New York Times

Mr. Obama will have to push back.

The New York Times

Kaine tried to push back.

The New Yorker

One has to push back.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to push back", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being opposed. For example, "The committee decided to push back against the proposed changes to the policy."

Common error

Avoid using "to push back" when a simple disagreement or questioning is intended. This phrase implies a stronger level of opposition and can be inappropriate in less confrontational situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to push back" functions as an intransitive phrasal verb, indicating an action of resistance or opposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly used to express a rejection of an idea or proposal. Examples show it in contexts of individuals, groups, or entities opposing policies, decisions, or actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to push back" is a common and versatile phrasal verb used to express resistance or opposition. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts. The phrase appears most often in news and media, academia, and scientific sources, maintaining a generally neutral tone. When writing, be mindful of the intensity implied by "to push back", reserving it for scenarios where active opposition is intended. Consider alternatives like "to resist" or "to oppose" for less confrontational situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to fight back

Emphasizes a struggle or active defense against an attack or opposition.

to stand up to

Suggests confronting someone or something powerful or intimidating with courage and determination.

to resist

This alternative is a more general term for opposing something, lacking the implication of a specific action in response.

to oppose

Similar to "to resist", but implies a more direct and often public disagreement.

to counter

Suggests an action taken to neutralize or offset the effects of something.

to challenge

Suggests questioning or disputing something, often with the intention of proving it wrong or inadequate.

to retaliate

Implies a more aggressive response, often in the form of revenge or retribution.

to rebuff

Indicates a firm rejection of an offer, suggestion, or advance.

to reject

A straightforward refusal to accept something.

to withstand

Implies enduring or resisting something strong or difficult.

FAQs

How can I use "to push back" in a sentence?

You can use "to push back" to describe resisting or opposing something. For example, "The team decided "to push back" against the new regulations" or "The community is "to push back" against the development project.

What are some alternatives to "to push back"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to resist", "to oppose", "to challenge", or "to fight back".

Is "to push back" formal or informal?

"To push back" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it's more common in news and media or professional settings.

When is it appropriate to use "to push back" instead of "to disagree"?

Use "to push back" when you want to emphasize active resistance or opposition to a specific proposal, idea, or action. "To disagree" is a more general term for expressing a different opinion.