pushback
Resistance or objection to an idea or plan
Examples
In a meeting
“We're expecting some pushback from the sales team on this new process.”
Over coffee
“I got a lot of pushback from my family about changing careers.”
Why this word
resistance
Pushback specifically means active opposition or objection to a proposal, while resistance is more passive or general
objection
Pushback implies opposition that challenges or questions moving forward, while objection can be a single formal disagreement
disagreement
Pushback suggests active resistance with force behind it, while disagreement is just differing opinions
Usage tip
Use to acknowledge resistance without being confrontational; helps prepare for objections
Etymology
English: push (exert force) + back (in return); originally a physical term adapted for social resistance
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Related words
contradict
To state the opposite or deny the truth of something
appease
To pacify or satisfy someone by giving in to their demands
impasse
A deadlock where no progress is possible
conciliatory
Intended to gain goodwill or reduce hostility
defuse
To reduce the danger or tension in a situation
intractable
Difficult or impossible to manage, resolve, or control