# when push comes to shove

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/when-push-comes-to-shove
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- When push comes to shove, I will help you move.
- We hope to finish the project on time, but when push comes to shove, we can work through the weekend.
- Although they preferred to avoid conflict, when push comes to shove, the board members are prepared to make the difficult decision to cut the budget.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.