Definition

Verb: 1. To continue moving forward, especially with effort or determination: To proceed on a journey or course of action, often despite difficulties or a desire to stop.

Usage

The phrasal verb "push on" is used to describe the act of continuing to travel or proceed with a task. It often implies that continuing requires some effort, resolve, or perseverance, perhaps because one is tired, conditions are difficult, or the destination is still far away. It is commonly used in narratives about travel, work, or long-term projects.

Examples

• Verb:
  • Despite the heavy rain, the hikers decided to push on to the next campsite.
  • We're tired, but we need to push on if we want to finish the report by tonight.
  • The explorer pushed on through the dense jungle.

Advanced Usage

• "to push on with something": To continue determinedly with a specific task or activity.
  • The team pushed on with the construction despite the supply delays.
• "to push on towards/into/to": To continue moving in a specific direction or toward a specific goal.
  • The army pushed on towards the capital.

Variants and Related Words

• Push (verb): To exert force on something to move it away. The core meaning of applying force relates to the effort implied in "push on."
• Press on (phrasal verb): A very close synonym to "push on," meaning to continue moving forward or to continue with an activity persistently.

Synonyms

• Continue: To keep doing something without stopping.
• Proceed: To begin or continue a course of action.
• Press on: To continue moving forward with determination.
• Persevere: To continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Push ahead: Similar to "push on," often used for projects or plans.
  • The company will push ahead with the new product launch.
• Push forward: To advance something or continue with increased effort.
  • We must push forward with our agenda.

Related Idioms

• Press/push forward: To continue making progress.
  • It's important to press forward and not give up.
• Keep going: A more general phrase for continuing.
  • You're almost there, just keep going!

Verb

1. continue moving forward