to push forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to push forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea of making progress or advancing in a particular direction, whether literally or metaphorically. Example: "Despite the challenges we faced, we decided to push forward with our plans for the new project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The early stages hinted at an open match, with both sides keen to push forward quickly.

BBC

"You have to push forward.

The New York Times

Time to push forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

And, four, to push forward Zahi Hawass.

The New Yorker

I have to push forward.

The New York Times

We have to push forward".

The New York Times

We'll continue to push forward".

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm eager to push forward," Granderson said.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, they want to push forward.

The New Yorker

Fellow rebel commanders rely on them to push forward.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But Mas vowed to push forward with independence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to push forward" when you want to convey a sense of determination, effort, and active progress, especially when facing obstacles or resistance.

Common error

Avoid using "to push forward" in situations where a passive or effortless advancement is implied. This phrase is best suited for scenarios requiring active effort and overcoming challenges.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to push forward" primarily functions as a verbal phrase, often used as part of a larger verb construction. It frequently acts as an adverbial modifier, indicating the manner or purpose of an action, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

17%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to push forward" is a versatile infinitive phrase signifying determined progress and active effort, according to Ludwig. It is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Formal & Business settings. While similar phrases like "to advance" or "to proceed" exist, "to push forward" distinctly emphasizes the active overcoming of obstacles. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is a solid choice for conveying resilience and forward momentum.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to move forward

Similar in meaning but less forceful than "to push forward".

to press on

Similar to "to push forward", but emphasizes persistence in the face of adversity.

to advance

This is a more general term for moving ahead, lacking the sense of effort implied in "to push forward".

to forge ahead

This emphasizes determination and overcoming challenges with boldness.

to proceed

This suggests a planned or orderly continuation, whereas "to push forward" can imply overcoming obstacles.

to persevere

Focuses on maintaining effort despite difficulties, rather than the forward movement itself.

to make headway

This highlights the progress being made, rather than the act of striving.

to strive

Emphasizes the effort and ambition to succeed, but doesn't necessarily imply physical movement or advancement.

to keep going

A more basic and general way to say continue, without the implication of active pushing.

to continue

A broad term for not stopping; lacks the active effort of "to push forward".

FAQs

What does "to push forward" mean?

The phrase "to push forward" means to continue with effort and determination, often in the face of obstacles, to make progress or advance in a particular direction.

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

You can use "to push forward" to describe making progress on a project, continuing with a plan despite difficulties, or encouraging someone to persevere. For example: "Despite the setbacks, we need "to move forward" and complete the project."

What can I say instead of "to push forward"?

You can use alternatives like "to advance", "to proceed", or "to press on", depending on the context. These alternatives convey a similar meaning of making progress or continuing despite challenges.

When is it appropriate to use "to push forward" versus ""to move forward""?

"To push forward" implies a more forceful and determined effort than ""to move forward"". Use "to push forward" when you want to emphasize the effort and determination required to overcome obstacles, while ""to move forward"" is more general and suggests a less strenuous continuation.