PhrasesHub

Push the envelope

    Definitions

      • innovate or exceed expectations
        To go beyond the usual or expected limits or boundaries, often in regards to creativity, risk-taking, or progress. Can also refer to challenging the status quo or conventional thinking in order to achieve something greater.

      • test the limits
        To stretch or push the boundaries of what is possible or acceptable, often with a sense of daring or risk-taking. Can also refer to exploring new or uncharted territory.

      • encourage progress
        To motivate or inspire someone or a group to strive for greater achievements or advancements. Can also refer to pushing for change or improvement in a particular field or industry.

    Examples of Push the envelope

    • The company's latest product is really pushing the envelope in terms of technology and innovation.

      This idiom is used to describe when someone or something goes beyond the usual limits or expectations. In this case, the company's product is breaking new ground in terms of technology and innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is currently possible. It's like pushing an actual envelope - you're taking something that's already been done and pushing it further, seeing what else is possible.

    • The athlete pushed the envelope in her performance today, breaking several records in the process.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone's actions or behavior. The athlete went beyond what was expected of her, breaking records and pushing the limits of what she was capable of.

    • The artist is really pushing the envelope with her latest work, challenging traditional ideas of what art should be.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone's creative work. The artist is pushing the boundaries of what is considered art, challenging traditional ideas and expectations.

    • The scientist is pushing the envelope in her research, making groundbreaking discoveries that could change the way we understand the world.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe someone's work in a specific field, such as science or research. The scientist is pushing the limits of what is currently known, making discoveries that could change the way we understand the world.In each example, the idiom is used in a different context, showing its versatility and usefulness in different situations.


    Conclusion

    "Pushing the envelope" is a versatile idiom that can encompass a range of intentions, all centered around the idea of going beyond what is usual or expected. Whether it is in terms of innovation, challenging the status quo, or encouraging progress, this phrase conveys a sense of pushing boundaries and striving for something greater.

    Origin of "Push the envelope"

    The origin of the idiom "push the envelope" can be traced back to the field of aviation. In the early days of flight, pilots would sometimes push the physical limits of their aircraft by flying at higher altitudes or faster speeds. This involved literally pushing the envelope, which is a term for the maximum performance capabilities of an aircraft.

    Over time, the phrase began to be used figuratively to describe pushing the limits or boundaries in other areas, such as technology, science, and even creativity. It became a popular phrase in the 1960s and 1970s, during a time of great innovation and progress in various industries.

    Today, "pushing the envelope" is a commonly used idiom that can be applied to many situations where someone is trying to reach new heights, take risks, or make significant strides. It carries a sense of boldness and daring, and is often used to encourage individuals or groups to think outside the box and strive for greatness.