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when push comes to shove

idiom

When the pressure is on; when the situation is critical or urgent; when the time has come for action, even if it is difficult.


Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    appetite comes with eating

    Starting an activity increases one's desire to continue it.

  2. 02

    burn that bridge when one comes to it

    To anticipate dealing with a problem or situation either by acting in a manner that alienates or cuts ties with others, or merely with the expectation of encountering trouble.

  3. 03

    cross that bridge when one comes to it

    To deal with a problem or situation only if and when it arises.

  4. 04

    one's ship comes in

    One makes or comes into possession of a significant amount of money.

  5. 05

    push against an open door

    To do something pointless or unnecessary; to try doing something already done.

  6. 06

    push in

    To jump the queue, especially in a forceful manner.

  7. 07

    push it

    To make an extraordinary or risky effort; to behave in a way which tests the limits; to take chances; to expect too much.

  8. 08

    push on

    To persist, persevere.

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