The word "pushed aside" is spelled /pʊʃt əˈsaɪd/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with the "uh" sound (ʊ), followed by the "sh" sound (ʃ). The "-ed" ending is pronounced with the "t" sound (t) because the base word "push" ends in a voiceless consonant. The second syllable is pronounced with the "uh" sound (ə) and the "i" sound (aɪ) with a rising intonation. The word means to physically or metaphorically move something or someone out of the way.
The term "pushed aside" is often used to describe a situation or action in which someone or something is disregarded, ignored, or treated as less important, resulting in being physically or metaphorically moved away from the center of attention or consideration. It implies being dismissed, sidelined, or relegated to a secondary or subordinate position.
In a literal sense, "pushed aside" refers to physically moving an object or person to clear a path or make room for something or someone else. For instance, in a crowded room, one might push aside a chair to create space for another individual. However, the phrase is more commonly used metaphorically to depict exclusion or neglect within social, professional, or personal contexts.
In interpersonal relationships, being "pushed aside" can signify feeling rejected or overlooked, often indicating a diminished importance or decreased involvement in someone's life. This marginalization can occur due to various reasons, including shifting priorities, lack of interest, or favoring others over the individual who is being pushed aside.
On a larger scale, "pushed aside" can also describe the systematic exclusion or discrimination faced by marginalized groups in society. This exclusion can result from societal prejudices, bias, or practices that deny certain individuals or communities equitable treatment, opportunities, or representation.
Overall, "pushed aside" encompasses both physical and metaphorical displacement, representing a state of being neglected, overlooked, or disregarded, whether due to personal interactions or societal dynamics.
The etymology of the phrase "pushed aside" can be understood by examining the origins and meanings of its individual components.
1. Pushed: The word "push" originated from the Old English word "puscan", which meant to thrust, shove, or exert pressure on something with force. It can also be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "puskan", which had a similar meaning. In the context of being pushed aside, the word emphasizes the act of physically displacing or moving something out of the way forcefully.
2. Aside: The term "aside" originated from the Middle English word "asiden", which derived from the Old English word "on sdē", meaning "to one side". It can also be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "sīdō" and the Proto-Indo-European root *s(e)ti-, which conveyed a sense of separation or distinction.