push-up: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “push-up” mean?
A physical exercise in which a person lies facing the floor and, keeping their back straight, raises their body by pressing down on their hands.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A physical exercise in which a person lies facing the floor and, keeping their back straight, raises their body by pressing down on their hands.
Can refer to any upward pushing motion or, in fashion, a type of bra designed to lift the breasts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'press-up' is often used synonymously with 'push-up', whereas in American English, 'push-up' is standard.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes physical fitness and discipline.
Frequency
'Push-up' is more frequent in American English; 'press-up' is preferred in British English but 'push-up' is also understood.
Grammar
How to Use “push-up” in a Sentence
do + [number] + push-upsperform + push-ups + on + [surface]push-up + sessionVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “push-up” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He pushed up the window to let in some air.
- Can you push up the deadline?
American English
- She pushed up her sleeves before starting work.
- They pushed up the meeting to next week.
adjective
British English
- She wore a push-up bra for the evening out.
- The push-up mechanism on the chair is broken.
American English
- He bought a push-up pen that extends with a click.
- The push-up handle on the suitcase makes it easy to carry.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; might appear in wellness programs or team-building activities.
Academic
Used in sports science, physiology, and health education.
Everyday
Common in casual conversations about fitness, exercise routines, and health.
Technical
Used in fitness training, military drills, and physical therapy.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “push-up”
- Using 'push-up' as a verb (e.g., 'I push-upped yesterday') instead of 'did push-ups'.
- Incorrect pluralization: 'push-up' vs 'push-ups'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'push-up' is primarily a noun. The verb form is 'push up' (two words).
It depends on your fitness level; beginners might start with 10-20, while advanced individuals can do more.
Push-ups primarily work the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles.
Yes, in fashion, a 'push-up bra' is designed to lift and enhance the appearance of the breasts.
A physical exercise in which a person lies facing the floor and, keeping their back straight, raises their body by pressing down on their hands.
Push-up is usually neutral in register.
Push-up: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpʊʃ ʌp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpʊʃ ʌp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “drop and give me twenty”
- “push-up contest”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember 'push-up' by thinking of pushing your body up from the ground.
Conceptual Metaphor
Pushing up can metaphorically represent improvement, elevation, or overcoming obstacles.
Practice
Quiz
What is a common synonym for 'push-up' in British English?