push the envelope: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘push the envelope’ mean?
When someone "pushes the envelope", they go beyond the usual or accepted limits in order to achieve something new or innovative.
Idiom Explorer
When someone "puts a shift in," it means they are putting in a lot of effort or working hard at something for an extended period of time.
The idiom "push water uphill" means attempting to do something that is extremely difficult or impossible to achieve. It implies a futile or pointless effort that goes against the natural flow or logic of a situation.
The idiom "push the boat out" means to make a special effort or go to great lengths, often in terms of spending money or time, to make an event or occasion more extravagant or impressive.
The idiom "push it" means to try to make something happen or to encourage someone to take action. It can also refer to asking someone to go faster or work harder. The phrase is often used in a motivating or urging context.
When someone prevails upon another, they successfully persuade or convince them to do something, often through persistent effort or pleading.
An idiom that means to expand or increase the length or content of something, often by adding unnecessary or unimportant details.
The idiom "over the top" means to be excessive or exaggerated in behavior, action or expression.
The idiom "over the line" means to cross a boundary or limit, often in behavior or speech, that is considered inappropriate, unacceptable, or offensive.
The idiom "overstep the mark" means to go beyond the limits of what is considered acceptable or appropriate behavior.
The idiom "outside the box" refers to thinking or approaching a problem in a creative or unconventional way, outside of normal or traditional boundaries. It encourages innovative and original thinking that goes beyond the usual limitations or constraints.
Origin Story
The idiom "push the envelope" is believed to have originated in the field of aviation. It refers to going beyond what is considered acceptable or conventional. The phrase itself brings to mind the idea of pushing the boundaries of an envelope, the container for written correspondence.
One possible origin of this idiom is the aviation industry. Test pilots and engineers would push the limits of aircraft performance. In the mid-20th century, the concept of flight envelopes emerged. These represented the safe operational limits of an aircraft. The envelope refers to the imaginary boundaries within which an aircraft can operate safely.
Over time, "pushing the envelope" gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. It was often used in relation to technological innovation and advancements. People or organizations would strive to go beyond established norms and conventional wisdom. The idiom captures the daring and ambitious spirit of those who aim to explore uncharted territories or break barriers.
"Push the envelope" is now widely used in various contexts beyond aviation and technology. It is commonly used in business, sports, and creative endeavors. It signifies a willingness to take risks, challenge the status quo, and pursue excellence by pushing the limits of what is deemed possible or permissible.
In addition to "push the envelope," there are other idioms related to this concept. One such idiom is "push the boat out." This phrase means to make an extravagant or lavish effort. It is often used in the context of celebrations or special occasions. When someone pushes the boat out, they go above and beyond to create a memorable and special experience.
Another related idiom is "overstep the mark." This phrase means to go beyond acceptable limits or boundaries. It is often used in situations where someone has crossed a line or acted inappropriately. When someone oversteps the mark, they exceed what is considered reasonable or acceptable.
The idiom "push the envelope," along with its related idioms, has become a widespread part of everyday language. It is used to describe actions or behaviors that are innovative, audacious, or unconventional. By pushing the envelope, individuals and organizations demonstrate a willingness to take risks and challenge existing norms in order to achieve new heights.
Despite its clear meaning, "push the envelope" retains an element of openness and possibility. It invites speculation about future endeavors that may go even further and redefine what is considered acceptable or achievable. As language and society continue to evolve, this idiom will likely adapt and find new applications that reflect the ever-changing quest for progress and exploration.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "push the envelope" can be used in a sentence:
- He always tries to push the envelope in his artwork, exploring new techniques and pushing boundaries.
- The company is known for pushing the envelope in terms of innovation and technology.
- She decided to push the envelope and apply for a job that seemed out of reach, hoping for a chance to prove herself.
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