push
verb (used with object)
to press upon or against (a person or thing).
was pushing
-
past progressiveof push.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Mark Carney was pushing to take Canada’s relationship with the EU to the next level—a bold gambit to rewire the economic cabling of the Western alliance.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 13, 2026
"I'm speechless right now. I was pushing to the limit in this match, especially in the third set," said Sabalenka.
From BBC ● Sep. 8, 2026
Oldenburg was pushing back against restrictive zoning and suburbanization, arguing that fully residential neighborhoods weakened the societal fabric of the United States.
From Salon ● Aug. 23, 2026
Masashi Matsuyama of Itochu Corp, a major trading house that owns the FamilyMart chain working with Bookoff, said "increased awareness of... ethical consumption" combined with growing inflation was pushing people towards "reasonably priced" recycled products.
From Barron's ● Jun. 17, 2026
I remember when Baba was pushing Mustafa to play chess or join quiz bowl, instead of basketball.
From "Amina's Song" by Hena Khan
