to push on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to push on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate continuing with an action or effort, especially in the face of difficulties or challenges. Example: "Despite the setbacks, we decided to push on and complete the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He vowed to push on for one reason.

The New York Times - Sports

We need to push on now".

The Guardian - Sport

It's another demonstration that we are wanting to push on".

Independent

"We are not going to push on blindly," he added.

The Guardian

You need to push on and get a bigger score.

The Guardian - Sport

"That's what you reminded us: to push on, to persevere," he said.

The New York Times

It gives you that extra fire in your belly, makes you want to push on".

Independent

Now we've just got to push on".

BBC

But I've been in this position a few times now and want to push on".

BBC

"I want to push on now and put my hand up for the Test," he said.

BBC

We need to find ways outside of the remit of UK Sport to push on".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to push on" to convey a sense of determination and forward momentum, especially when facing obstacles. For example, "Despite the challenges, the team decided to push on with the project".

Common error

Avoid using "to push on" when a more specific verb would be more appropriate. For example, instead of "to push on the door", use "to push the door" if you mean to physically move it.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "to push on" functions as an intransitive verb, indicating the act of continuing with something, often in the face of challenges or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Sport

20%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "to push on" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies continuing with an action or effort, particularly when facing obstacles. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media and sports reporting, "to push on" conveys a sense of determination and forward momentum. While alternatives like "to persevere" or "to carry on" exist, "to push on" maintains a balance between formality and accessibility, making it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to persevere

Emphasizes persistence and determination in the face of difficulty.

to carry on

Suggests continuing with an activity or task, often when things are not easy.

to forge ahead

Implies making progress with determination and a sense of purpose.

to press forward

Highlights the act of moving ahead with sustained effort.

to keep going

A more informal way to express continuing without stopping.

to move forward

Focuses on the act of making progress and advancing towards a goal.

to proceed

Indicates a formal continuation of a process or activity.

to advance

Suggests making progress in a strategic or planned way.

to keep at it

Emphasizes the importance of sustained effort and dedication.

to not give up

Highlights the determination to continue despite setbacks or challenges.

FAQs

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

You can use "to push on" to describe continuing an activity or effort, often despite challenges. For instance, "We faced many obstacles, but we decided "to push on" and complete the task".

What are some alternatives to "to push on"?

Alternatives include "to persevere", "to carry on", or "to keep going". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "push on" formal or informal?

"Push on" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "to persevere" or "to proceed" may be preferable in certain situations.

What's the difference between "to push on" and "to push through"?

"To push on" generally means to continue despite difficulty, while "to push through" often implies overcoming a specific obstacle or resistance. For example, you might "push on" with a project despite setbacks, but you would "push through" a crowd to reach the front.