push aside
Definition
Verb: 1. To dismiss or disregard: To intentionally ignore something or someone; to refuse to consider something seriously. 2. To move something out of the way physically: To apply force to an object or person to create space or clear a path.
Usage and Examples
- To dismiss or disregard:
- She tried to push aside her doubts and focus on the task.
- The manager pushed aside the concerns of the junior staff.
- To move something out of the way physically:
- He pushed aside the empty boxes to get to the door.
- The crowd was pushed aside by the security team.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use for Emotions or Thoughts: Often used metaphorically to describe ignoring feelings, memories, or ideas.
- He learned to push aside his anger and respond calmly.
Variants and Related Words
- Push away (phrasal verb): Often used interchangeably with the physical meaning of "push aside," but can also imply a more forceful or emotional rejection.
- She pushed away her plate, no longer hungry.
- Brush aside (phrasal verb): A close synonym, especially for the dismissive meaning, implying the matter is treated as trivial.
- He brushed aside all criticism.
Synonyms
- Dismiss: To decide that something or someone is not important or worth considering.
- Disregard: To pay no attention to; ignore.
- Shove aside: A more forceful synonym for the physical action.
- Ignore: To refuse to take notice of or acknowledge.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Set aside: To save or reserve for a purpose, or to temporarily disregard.
- Let's set aside our differences and work together. (Here, it is a synonym for the dismissive meaning of "push aside.")
- Sweep aside: To quickly and decisively dismiss or remove obstacles.
- The new law swept aside years of tradition.
Related Idioms
- To turn a blind eye: To pretend not to notice; to ignore.
- The authorities turned a blind eye to the minor violations. (This relates to the dismissive meaning of "push aside.")
Verb
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bar from attention or consideration
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She dismissed his advances
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push out of the way