This is one of those expressions I never understood.
2006-10-03 08:18:04 · 7 answers · asked by harveymac1336 6 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
It basically means -- when there is no more time to consider alternatives. When time is up. When there's a deadline and it's time to make a decision NOW.
Think of it this way -- if someone pushes someone, and that person SHOVES back, the situation is elevating into something and it's too late to turn back now. It's time to figure out a resolution, or it's gonna get really bad.
For example, have you ever been on a team project where people aren't getting anything done because they're spending all their time debating how it should get done instead of just delegating responsibility and DOING something? I would be the person who would say "Look -- when push comes to shove, the bottom line is that we have to accomplish X, Y and Z. So let's get started!"
2006-10-03 08:22:59 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It orginally came from the cave men back in prehistoric times during the season procreation. It was called " OOh, Ugh, AhH!". Thus if its too hard of a push and you have to really shove it, then let it be done. Meaning, if all your chances are taking, you will have to take drastic measures.
2006-10-03 15:21:40 · answer #2 · answered by joshooog 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
http://clichesite.com/content.asp?which=tip+2358
Cliché: When push comes to shove
Explanation: 1. When there is no more time to consider alternatives.
Country: United States
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2006-10-03 15:23:51 · answer #3 · answered by dagmar 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It means that when you push someone you are kind of mildly starting violence and shove is the more violent form of pushing someone.
2006-10-03 15:22:48 · answer #4 · answered by The Prince 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
a shove is just a stronger push. therefore, "push comes to shove" refers to not-so-drastic measures leading to more drastic measures
2006-10-03 15:40:24 · answer #5 · answered by acme2491 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋
When something has to become rushed because of a cetain situation.
2006-10-03 15:25:55 · answer #6 · answered by karpflover 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
plz give me vote
2006-10-03 15:26:47 · answer #7 · answered by bhavik d 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋