push the envelope

Idioms  

1. Exceed the limits of what is normally done, be innovative, as in They are pushing the envelope in using only new fabrics for winter clothing. This idiom comes from aviation, the envelope alluding to the technical limits of a plane's performance, which, on a graph, appear as a rising slope as limits of speed and stress are approached and falls off when the capacity is exceeded and the pilot loses control; safety lies within these limits, or envelope, and exceeding them exposes pilot and plane to risk. [Slang; late 1960s]

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Example Sentences

"We wanted to really push the envelope on how we can provide an even greater spotlight for the players, these magnificent athletes, on the court, that effectively becomes their stage," Tiley added.

From BBC • Feb. 3, 2026

“Across the whole portfolio we are going to be ensuring that we have options that push the envelope a little more, deliver texture, deliver flavor, in a way that’s new and unique,” Taffet said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 15, 2026

Global investors, however, continue to push the envelope on risk.

From Barron's • Nov. 18, 2025

But though “Lurker” could certainly push the envelope further, Matthew’s ascent, fall from grace and gradual climb back up wouldn’t feel as realistic as it needs to for the film to land its sickly ending.

From Salon • Aug. 26, 2025

Then Eva Allen tried to push the envelope into another girl's hand; but the girl put her hands behind her back and obstinately refused to take it.

From Grace Harlowe's Sophomore Year at High School The Record of the Girl Chums in Work and Athletics by Flower, Jessie Graham [pseud.]