Phrasal verb
push on
Meanings
to continue moving forward or traveling, especially when it is difficult
to continue doing an activity or task, especially after a delay or despite problems
Definition
To push on means to continue moving or doing something, especially despite difficulty or tiredness.
If you push on, you keep going with a journey, task, or effort instead of stopping. It often suggests determination when conditions are hard, time is short, or you feel tired. It can also mean continuing after a pause or interruption.
Examples
- I was exhausted, but I decided to push on to the next town.
- You should push on with the project even if the first draft is messy.
- He pushed on through the heavy rain and reached the campsite before dark.
- She pushed on after the interruption and finished her presentation calmly.
- They pushed on despite the long line and finally got inside.
Common mistake
Learners often say "push on to do" when they mean continuing an activity; use "push on with" for tasks (e.g., "push on with the work").
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.