PUSHING BACK Meaning and
Definition
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Pushing back refers to the act of resisting, opposing, or defending against something or someone that is exerting pressure or attempting to gain control. It involves countering or challenging an idea, force, or influence in order to protect one's interests, maintain boundaries, or uphold certain principles.
In interpersonal relationships, pushing back can involve expressing dissent, disagreement, or a refusal to comply with demands or expectations. It is a way of asserting oneself, standing up for one's rights, or refusing to be taken advantage of. Pushing back can help establish healthy boundaries, maintain autonomy, and safeguard one's emotional, mental, or physical well-being.
In a broader context, pushing back can also be used to describe resistance to oppressive systems, societal norms, or unjust policies. It can be a collective effort aimed at challenging and changing structures of power or rectifying injustices. By pushing back, individuals or communities strive to promote equality, social justice, and human rights.
The term can also be applied in a military or strategic context where it refers to forcefully and actively resisting an enemy's advance or aggression. This can involve engaging in combat, utilizing defensive tactics, or mobilizing resources to halt or repel the opponent's progress.
In summary, pushing back entails actively opposing or resisting external pressures, whether in interpersonal relationships, social settings, or strategic contexts, with the aim of protecting one's interests, asserting rights, or promoting change.
Common Misspellings for PUSHING BACK
Etymology of PUSHING BACK
The phrase "pushing back" is a compound of the verb "push" and the particle "back".
The word "push" originated from the Middle English word "pusshen", which can be traced back to the Old French word "pousser". This ultimately comes from the Latin word "pulsare", meaning "to beat, strike, or push".
The particle "back" is older, coming from the Old English word "bæc", meaning "the rear surface". It has remained relatively unchanged over time.
When these two elements are combined, "pushing back" refers to the action of exerting force in the opposite direction, moving away or resisting pressure or opposition.
