- To approach or go beyond the conventional or accepted limits of performance, safety, or social norms; to innovate or be daring.
Explanation
Origin
- Comes from aeronautics and mathematics/engineering.
- The flight envelope refers to the scientifically determined boundaries (e.g., speed, altitude, maneuverability) within which an aircraft can operate safely.
- Test pilots who flew aircraft at or beyond these limits to test performance were said to be pushing the envelope.
- The phrase was popularized by Tom Wolfe's 1979 book The Right Stuff about the Mercury Seven astronauts and test pilots. It then spread to general usage for exceeding limits in any field.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Pushing the limits.
- Being edgy.
- Going all out.
- Shaking things up.
Vulgar/Emphatic (Can imply recklessness or extreme effort):
- Going balls to the wall. (Maximum effort/risk, often speed-related)
- Not giving a fuck about the rules. (Rebellious boundary-pushing)
Milder/Standard:
- Innovating.
- Breaking new ground.
- Challenging conventions.
- Being progressive.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in informal, semi-formal, and formal contexts, especially business, technology, arts, and science.
- Generally carries a positive connotation of innovation and boldness, but can imply recklessness depending on context.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might be confused by the literal image of pushing a paper envelope. Explain the origin in aviation and the metaphorical meaning of exceeding limits.
Examples
- This designer is always pushing the envelope with her unconventional materials.
- The company's success comes from constantly pushing the envelope in technology.
- As an artist, he felt the need to push the envelope and challenge societal norms.
Dialogue
Investor 1: Their new product concept seems pretty radical. Almost too much.
Investor 2: Yeah, but that's their brand. They always push the envelope. It's why they dominate the market – they're always one step ahead.
Investor 1: True. It's high risk, high reward, I suppose.
Social Media Examples
- Tech Blog Headline: How Startup X is Pushing the Envelope in AI Development
- Tweet: Loved the new exhibit at the gallery! The artist really pushes the envelope with their use of mixed media. #art #innovation #contemporaryart
- LinkedIn Profile Summary: Passionate about pushing the envelope in sustainable design...
Response Patterns
- That's what makes them innovative.
- It's risky, but it can lead to breakthroughs.
- Sometimes they push it too far, though.
- They're definitely not afraid to experiment.
- Admirable. / Bold.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After noting someone pushes the envelope:
- People might ask for specific examples: How so?, In what way?
- Discussion might turn to the risks and rewards of such boundary-pushing.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Used to describe the actions or characteristics of a person, group, or product within a conversation.
Intonation
- Usually stated with a sense of admiration, excitement, or sometimes caution.
- Emphasis on PUSH the ENVELOPE.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood, perhaps more frequently used in professional or tech-related contexts where innovation is valued. The Right Stuff origin might be more familiar to Gen X and Boomers.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions, particularly North America.