pushy

Everyday

Pushy describes someone who tries too hard to get what they want, telling others what to do or pressuring them in an annoying way. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life: a pushy salesperson keeps trying to make you buy; a pushy child pushes in or always wants their way. In safety lessons: if an adult or older child is pushy and pressures you to do something you feel bad about, say no and tell a trusted adult. Phrases: a pushy salesman, a bit pushy, don't be pushy.

Examples

• The salesman was very pushy about the new phone. tree →
• Don't be pushy — wait your turn. tree →
• She was a bit pushy in the group project. tree →
• Pushy people can make others feel uncomfortable. tree →
• If someone online is pushy, stop chatting and tell an adult. tree →
• He's not pushy; he just likes to help. tree →

Note

Comparative: pushier, pushiest (y → i). It is a negative word — calling someone pushy is a criticism. Being confident is not the same as being pushy: you can ask for what you want politely.