The word "pushing around" is spelled using the phonetic symbols /pʊʃɪŋ əˈraʊnd/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet. In this spelling system, the first syllable "push" is pronounced with the sound /pʊʃ/ as in "bush", while the second syllable "ing" is pronounced with the sound /ɪŋ/ as in "sing". The final syllable "around" is spelled using the sounds /əˈraʊnd/, with the neutral vowel sound /ə/ followed by the diphthong /aʊ/ as in "owl" and the sound /nd/ as in "and".
The phrase "pushing around" is commonly used to describe the act of exerting dominance or exercising control over others through aggressive or forceful behavior. It refers to the tendency of certain individuals to intimidate or manipulate others in order to get their way or impose their will upon them.
In its literal sense, "pushing around" involves physically moving or manipulating someone against their will. This can include actions like shoving, jostling, or physically forcing someone to go in a particular direction or perform a task. However, the phrase is more frequently used in a metaphorical sense to indicate psychological or emotional manipulation rather than physical force.
Metaphorically, "pushing around" refers to various behaviors intended to assert dominance or control over others, often through intimidation, coercion, or threats. This can manifest in different ways, such as bossing people around, belittling or demeaning them, or using aggressive verbal or non-verbal communication to maintain power or influence. The person who engages in such behavior seeks to establish their superiority or authority over others.
The act of "pushing around" is generally deemed as a negative behavior that disregards the autonomy, dignity, and rights of others. It fosters an imbalanced power dynamic, where the pusher feels entitled to control or manipulate others for their own gain or satisfaction. This behavior is often viewed as bullying or harassment, as it undermines the individuality and wellbeing of those who are subjected to it.
The phrase "pushing around" is a combination of the verb "push" and the preposition "around".
The verb "push" originated from the Old English word "puscan" which meant "to exert force against (a thing) in order to move it away". It was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "puskanan" meaning "to push, dash, or thrust".
The preposition "around" has its roots in the Middle English word "arounde" which derived from the Old English word "on + būtan" meaning "on the outside, round about".
In combination, "pushing around" refers to the act of forcibly moving an object or person from one place to another, often implying dominance, intimidation, or manipulation.