thrust

To push something suddenly or strongly in a particular direction.

• He thrust the letter into my hand.
• She thrust her hands into her pockets.
• Why did you thrust the microphone at me?

How to use it: thrust something into something (She thrust the keys into her bag.); thrust something at someone (He thrust the form at the clerk.)

Similar words: shove, push

Opposites: pull

Common phrases: thrust something forward, thrust into something, thrust at someone

To move or send something forward with strong force, especially during an attack.

• The troops thrust forward at dawn.
• Our forces thrust at the enemy’s weakest position.
• The army thrust deep into enemy territory.

How to use it: thrust into something (The troops thrust into the valley.); thrust at someone/something (The cavalry thrust at the enemy line.)

Similar words: advance, drive forward

Opposites: retreat

Common phrases: thrust forward, thrust at someone, thrust into something

To make a hole in someone or something by driving a sharp object through it.

• He thrust his sword through the shield.
• The spear thrust through the soldier’s armor.
• She thrust the blade through the thick leather.

How to use it: thrust something through something (He thrust the spear through the wooden barrier.)

Similar words: stab, pierce

Common phrases: thrust through something, thrust a sword, thrust a spear

A sudden, strong forward movement, especially with a weapon or part of the body.

• He blocked the sword thrust.
• A quick thrust sent the blade forward.
• She avoided his thrust and stepped back.

How to use it: a thrust of something (A thrust of his arm pushed the door open.)

Similar words: lunge, push

Common phrases: forward thrust, sword thrust, thrust of something

The pushing force that moves an aircraft, rocket, or other vehicle forward.

• The engine produces enough thrust.
• The pilot increased thrust before takeoff.
• Both rockets lost thrust during the test.

Similar words: propulsive force

Common phrases: engine thrust, generate thrust, increase thrust