Translation guide
The English phrase 'push through' has several distinct meanings: physically forcing a way through a crowd or obstacle, persevering through difficulty, and getting something approved or enacted. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each use.
To continue doing something despite difficulties, to endure and finish a task or period.
Means to carry something through to the end, emphasizing completion despite challenges. Common in both spoken and written Japanese.
最後までやり抜くつもりだ。
I intend to push through to the end.
Literally 'to climb over', used metaphorically for overcoming obstacles or hardships. Very common.
困難を乗り越えて、プロジェクトを成功させた。
We pushed through the difficulties and made the project a success.
Emphasizes persisting with effort. Slightly more colloquial than やり抜く.
疲れたけど、頑張り通した。
I was tired, but I pushed through.
Implies pushing forward vigorously, often without hesitation. Can be used for both physical and metaphorical advancement.
反対を押し切って、計画を突き進んだ。
We pushed through the opposition and went ahead with the plan.
To physically push through a crowd, barrier, or tight space.
Specifically means to push one's way through a crowd or obstacle. The most direct equivalent for physical pushing through.
人混みを押し通って、出口に向かった。
I pushed through the crowd and headed for the exit.
Literally 'push aside and advance', used for moving through dense crowds or thick vegetation.
彼は群衆をかき分けて進んだ。
He pushed through the crowd.
Means to break through a barrier or defensive line. Can be used for physical obstacles or metaphorical ones.
警察のバリケードを突破した。
They pushed through the police barricade.
To push a proposal, law, or decision through an official process, often despite opposition.
Means to push something through persistently, often used for opinions, policies, or plans despite resistance.
彼は自分の意見を押し通した。
He pushed through his opinion.
Used specifically for passing legislation or establishing agreements. More formal.
政府はその法案を成立させた。
The government pushed through the bill.
Refers to forcing a vote or decision through a committee or parliament, often against opposition. Political term.
与党はその法案を強行採決した。
The ruling party pushed through the bill by force.
Do not translate 'push through' word-for-word as 押して通る except in very specific physical contexts. The Japanese expressions depend heavily on the intended meaning.