to push the envelope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to push the envelope" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of going beyond the usual limits or boundaries, often in a creative or innovative context. Example: "The team worked tirelessly to push the envelope in technology, developing groundbreaking software that changed the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And it's good to push the envelope.

The New York Times

He tends to push the envelope.

The New York Times - Arts

I wanted to push the envelope.

The New York Times

"I had to push the envelope," he said.

The New York Times

I headed out once again, determined to push the envelope.

The New York Times - Travel

"Our mandate is to be edgy, to push the envelope".

The New Yorker

Kanye overheats with his efforts to push the envelope.

The Guardian - Music

"Facebook has always tried to push the envelope," he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We're being invited constantly to push the envelope.

The New York Times - Sports

In other sports, women are continuing to push the envelope.

The New York Times - Sports

"We were really trying to push the envelope.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to push the envelope" when you want to convey the idea of challenging existing limits, especially in creative or innovative contexts. It implies a willingness to take risks and explore new possibilities.

Common error

While "to push the envelope" is widely understood, overuse can make your writing sound trite. Consider using a synonym like "to innovate boldly" or "to challenge boundaries" to add freshness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to push the envelope" functions as an infinitive verb phrase, often serving as an object of a verb or part of a larger verb construction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound, and examples showcase its versatility in expressing the act of exceeding established boundaries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to push the envelope" is a widely recognized and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of exceeding established limits, particularly in innovative or creative endeavors. As noted by Ludwig AI, it enjoys common usage across diverse sources, especially in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration should be given to its use in highly formal settings, where alternatives like "to exceed limitations" may be more appropriate. Remember to use this phrase when emphasizing the desire to challenge conventions and explore new possibilities, but be mindful of overuse and consider synonyms to maintain freshness. Examples from Ludwig provide ample context for understanding its versatility and appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to go beyond the limits

A more literal and less idiomatic way of expressing the idea of exceeding boundaries.

to stretch the boundaries

Implies extending or expanding existing limits, rather than radically surpassing them.

to break new ground

Suggests innovation and pioneering work, with less emphasis on risk or exceeding limits.

to raise the bar

Emphasizes setting a new standard of excellence or achievement, implying that others will need to improve to meet the new standard.

to challenge boundaries

Emphasizes questioning and testing established limits, rather than necessarily surpassing them.

to innovate boldly

Focuses on creating new and original ideas with courage and confidence, rather than just exceeding limitations.

to exceed limitations

Focuses on surpassing existing restrictions or boundaries, removing the creative connotation of the original phrase.

to defy convention

Highlights the act of opposing or disregarding established norms and practices.

to venture into the unknown

Emphasizes exploration and discovery, suggesting a willingness to take risks and explore uncharted territory.

to aim higher

Suggests setting more ambitious goals and striving for greater achievements, without necessarily implying the breaking of existing limits.

FAQs

How can I use "to push the envelope" in a sentence?

You can use "to push the envelope" to describe actions that go beyond established limits. For example: "The artist wanted "to push the envelope" with her new exhibition."

What does "to push the envelope" mean?

"To push the envelope" means to go beyond the usual limits or boundaries, often in a creative or innovative way. It suggests a willingness to take risks and challenge conventions.

What can I say instead of "to push the envelope"?

Alternatives to "to push the envelope" include "to break new ground", "to go beyond the limits", or "to challenge boundaries". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "to push the envelope" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "to push the envelope" might be considered too informal for some academic or highly formal business contexts. Consider more formal alternatives like "to exceed limitations" or "to advance the state of the art" in such situations.