How Do You Spell PUSH OFF?

Pronunciation: [pˈʊʃ ˈɒf] (IPA)

The phrase "push off" is spelled according to the standard English alphabet, but its pronunciation can be a bit tricky. The initial "p" sound is straightforward, but the "u" sound is actually pronounced as a "uh" sound, like in the word "up." The "o" in "off" is pronounced like the "ah" sound in "father." The final "ff" is pronounced as a voiceless consonant, made by placing the top teeth on the bottom lip and blowing air out. In IPA, "push off" is transcribed as /pʊʃ ɒf/.

PUSH OFF Meaning and Definition

1. Push off is a phrasal verb that can be used with different meanings, depending on the context. It is typically associated with physical actions or movements.

   One use of push off refers to the act of forcefully pushing away or propelling oneself from a surface or object. For instance, when boating or rowing, push off means to use oars or other means to move a boat away from a dock or shoreline and start moving in water. Similarly, in ice skating or rollerblading, it means to push against the ground with one's foot to gain momentum and begin gliding forward.

   Another meaning of push off can be metaphorical and related to departure or leaving. In this sense, it refers to starting or embarking on a journey, either physically or metaphorically. For example, one can say "It's time to push off" when meaning it is time to leave or start a trip, project, or new phase in life. This use can also imply a sense of urgency, readiness, or detachment from a current situation in order to move forward.

   Additionally, push off can be used as slang to express the idea of leaving or going away, often abruptly or forcefully. This less formal or colloquial sense is commonly used in British English. For instance, someone might say "I'm going to push off now" meaning they are leaving a place or ending a conversation.

   Therefore, whether used literally or figuratively, push off conveys the action of initiating movement, leaving a particular location, or embarking on a journey.

Common Misspellings for PUSH OFF

• pushoff

Etymology of PUSH OFF

The word "push off" originated as a verb phrase in the English language. Its etymology can be traced back to the combination of two words:

1. Push: The word "push" has Old English roots, derived from the Middle English term "puschen", which meant to thrust or move something by applying force. The Old English form came from the Proto-Germanic word "puskaną", ultimately related to the Latin word "pulsāre" meaning "to beat" or "to strike".

2. Off: The word "off" also has Old English origins and has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning over time. It, too, can be traced to the Proto-Germanic word "af", meaning away or from.

Idioms with the word PUSH OFF

• push off on The idiom "push off on" has a few different potential meanings, depending on the context: 1. To depart or leave: This meaning suggests that "push off on" is used to indicate someone or something leaving a particular place or location. Example: "We should push off on our vacation before it gets too late." 2. To impose or burden someone with a responsibility or task: In this sense, "push off on" is used to describe the act of forcing someone to take on a task or responsibility that they may not want or be prepared for. Example: "Don't push off on me your work; I have enough to handle already." 3. To initiate or start something forcefully: This interpretation implies that "push off on
• push off To leave or go away, especially in a brusque or impolite manner.