The phrase "push around" refers to when someone is being bullied or treated unfairly. In IPA phonetic transcription, "push" is spelled /pʊʃ/ and "around" is spelled /əˈraʊnd/. The "sh" sound in "push" is represented by the combination of the letters "sh," while the stress is placed on the first syllable. The second syllable of "around" ends with a vowel sound represented by the letter "a," and the stress is placed on the first syllable. Together, these two words form the phrase "push around."
The phrase "push around" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of intimidating, bullying, or mistreating someone physically or verbally. It is often employed when one person uses their power, authority, or influence to control or dominate another person, often over an extended period. The term can be used in various contexts, such as personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or societal interactions.
In personal relationships, "pushing around" might involve constantly criticizing, belittling, or emotionally manipulating someone to maintain dominance or control. In employment settings, it can refer to an authoritative figure exerting undue influence or excessive control over their subordinates, possibly resulting in a toxic work environment. On a broader scale, societal instances of "pushing around" can occur when individuals or groups exploit their power to oppress or marginalize others based on their race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
The term "push around" implies an ongoing and repetitive pattern of mistreatment, wherein the aggressor consistently seeks to maintain their superiority, often disregarding the well-being or dignity of the person being pushed. It encompasses both physical and psychological forms of harassment, emphasizing the unjust use of force or coercion.
The phrase "push around" is derived from two separate words with distinct origin and meanings.
First, let's look at the word "push". It comes from the Middle English word "pusshen", which originated around the 14th century. This Middle English term was derived from the Old French word "pousser", meaning "to push or thrust". The Old French word itself has its roots in the Latin word "pulsare", which means "to beat or strike". Over time, "push" evolved to refer to the act of exerting force to move something or someone.
The addition of "around" to "push" forms the phrase "push around". "Around" is an English preposition that signifies movement or motion in a circular direction. When used together with "push", it implies forcefully moving an object or a person by exerting control, domination, or intimidation.