press on
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press (something) (up)on (one)
To urge or try to persuade someone to take or accept something. Despite our protests, my parents pressed the money on us to help pay for the wedding. He pressed the documents on the reporter, stating that it would be a huge story.
See also: press
press on (someone or something)
To apply physical force or pressure to someone or something. As the bus filled with people, the man sitting next to me started pressing on me against the window. The bookcase is a bit unstable, so don't press on it too hard or it may topple over.
press on(ward)
To continue or try to do something with determination, especially in the face of hardships or setbacks. It was discouraging to learn that our budget had been cut, but we pressed on in the hopes of recovering our investment costs. We have to press onward; we've come too far to turn back now!
See also: press
press (up)on someone or something
to put pressure on someone or something. (Upon is formal and less commonly used than on.) The crowd pressed upon the child, squeezing out all his breath. The load presses on your car's springs very heavily.
press something (up)on someone
to urge or force something on someone; to try to get someone to accept something. (Upon is formal and less commonly used than on.) He always presses second helpings upon his guests. She pressed a gift on us that we could not refuse.
press on something
to push or depress something, such as a button, catch, snap, etc. Press on this button if you require room service. Don't press on this because it rings a loud bell.
press on(ward)
to continue; to continue to try. Don't give up! Press onward! I have lots to do. I must press on.
press on
v.
1. To apply direct pressure to something: I pressed on the edge of the table, and it tipped over.
2. To continue doing something with determination and despite setbacks: Despite their exhaustion, the climbers pressed on toward the summit.