Idiom
when push comes to shove
Meanings
When a situation becomes difficult or urgent and someone must take action or make a firm decision.
Definition
Used to say that when a situation becomes serious and action is required, a decision or choice must be made.
When push comes to shove means that when things get difficult or urgent, people must act and show what they really will do. It often introduces the final test of commitment, courage, or priorities. Speakers use it to contrast talk or plans with what happens under real pressure.
Examples
- He talks about quitting, but when push comes to shove, he never leaves.
- When push comes to shove, we’ll cut spending and focus on essentials.
- She seemed unsure, but when push comes to shove, she makes quick decisions.
- They promised to help, but when push comes to shove, they disappeared.
More at C1 level
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More idioms
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