at a pinch

When something ideal or preferred is not available; as a substitute. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. Sir, I think we can get you on that flight at a pinch, as long as you don't mind waiting around. I don't have any cooking oil. Is there anything else I can add to the recipe at a pinch? Ah, this shade of lipstick will do at a pinch—it's better than nothing.

at a push

With extra effort. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. At a push, we can still make it on time. I think I can have this order done early, at a push. A: "Hey, the boss wants to know how the report is coming along." B: "At a push, I could probably have it done tomorrow."

at a pinch

BRITISH or

in a pinch

AMERICAN

COMMON If it is possible to do something at a pinch, it can just be done if it is absolutely necessary. Allow an hour for the dish to stand when it comes out of the oven, but 10-15 minutes will do at a pinch. The ballroom could easily handle two hundred chairs, more in a pinch.

at a push

If it is possible to do something at a push, it can be done if necessary but it is difficult. The only thing you can't get in the village is milk and you can always, at a push, get some from the farm. He could undress, take a shower and change into evening clothes in under five minutes at a push.

at a pinch

if necessary; in an emergency.

A North American variant of this expression is in a pinch .

at a push

if necessary; in an emergency. British

1997 Trail It's roomy for one person, but can take two at a push.

at a ˈpinch/ˈpush

(British English) (American English in a ˈpinch) (informal) possible if you try very hard or if it is absolutely necessary: We usually only accept 55 guests but at a pinch, we could take 60.

at a pinch/push

at a pinch

at a push

at a pinch

in a pinch

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at a push

at a ˈpinch/ˈpush