- A warning advising someone not to take excessive risks or continue potentially risky behavior, especially after experiencing some initial success or good fortune.
- It implies that their luck might run out if they continue.
Explanation
Origin
- Based on the concept of luck as a finite resource or a force that can be tested or strained (pushed).
- Pushing too hard might lead to bad fortune or simply increase the statistical probability of failure. The expression has been common since at least the early 20th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Don't test it. / Don't try it.
- Chill out. / Simmer down. (If the person is being overly bold/aggressive)
- Know when to fold 'em. (Poker reference: know when to give up/stop)
Milder/Standard:
- It might be wise to stop now.
- You've been fortunate so far; perhaps don't risk it further.
- I wouldn't advise taking further risks.
Vulgar/Emphatic: (Very harsh warning against perceived stupidity)
- Don't be a fucking idiot.
- Quit being greedy. (If the risk is driven by wanting more)
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal.
- Used as direct advice or warning against perceived recklessness, greed, or testing boundaries too far.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally clear in its meaning. The listener understands it as advice against continuing a potentially risky course of action.
Examples
- You got away with speeding once, but don't push your luck.
- She agreed to extend the deadline by a day. Don't ask for more; don't push your luck.
- You've won five hands in a row at poker. Maybe you should quit while you're ahead; don't push your luck.
Dialogue
Leo: I found a loophole in the online game that gives me extra points! I'm going to keep exploiting it!
Mia: Be careful. The developers might catch on and ban your account. Don't push your luck.
Leo: Hmm, maybe you're right. It's probably not worth the risk.
Social Media Examples
- Reply to someone bragging about narrowly avoiding trouble: Glad you got away with it this time, but don't push your luck! #becareful #risky
- Comment on a gambling win story: Nice win! Cash out now, don't push your luck. #gambling #wisdom
Response Patterns
- Okay, okay, I get it.
- You're probably right.
- Alright, I'll stop/be careful.
- Sometimes defensively: I know what I'm doing! or It'll be fine!
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- The listener is expected to cease the risky behavior or moderate their actions.
- The speaker might elaborate on the potential negative consequences if the warning isn't heeded.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a specific warning given in response to someone's actions or stated intentions that are perceived as overly risky or reliant on continued good fortune.
Intonation
- Usually delivered with a warning or cautionary tone, sometimes firm.
- Stress typically falls on push and luck.
- Example: Don't push your luck.
Generation Differences
- Common and understood across generations.
Regional Variations
- Widely used in all major English-speaking regions.