Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
when-push-comes-to-shove
idiom
/wɛn pʌʃ kʌmz tu ʃʌv/
Definition
A phrase used to indicate a situation when someone must take action or make a difficult decision, especially under pressure.
Examples
- When push comes to shove, I will always support my friends.
- She seemed indecisive, but when push came to shove, she made her choice.
- It’s easy to talk about helping others, but when push comes to shove, not everyone steps up.
Meaning
This expression signifies a moment when a decision or action is required, often in challenging circumstances. It implies that when faced with intense pressure or urgency, one must confront the situation directly.
Synonyms
- when the rubber meets the road
- in a crunch
- in a tight spot
