push on
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To keep going even when things are hard or you feel like stopping.
Literal meaning: To push so as to move something onward.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
neutral
To continue a journey or task despite tiredness or obstacles.
"The hikers were exhausted, but they decided to push on and reach the summit before dark."
"We shall go on to the end... we shall never surrender."
— Winston Churchill, speech to the House of Commons, June 4, 1940 (paraphrase of the 'push on' spirit; direct use of the PV in the speech is not confirmed — treat as illustrative)
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 neutral
To move forward physically through a crowd or space.
"They pushed on through the dense jungle, machetes in hand."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used in contexts of travel, work, or overcoming adversity. Has a slightly encouraging or determined tone. Common in both British and American English.
Commonly used with
journey work regardless despite ahead forward
Forms
Base
push on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pushes on
he/she/it
Past simple
pushed on
yesterday
Past participle
pushed on
have + pp
-ing form
pushing on
continuous
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