propel
UK/prəˈpel/US/prәu'pel/
IELTSTOEFLGREC2
Definitions
v.
To drive or push something forward with force
推进，推动（向前）
v.
To drive someone into a situation or toward a goal
驱使，促使（进入某境地或迈向目标）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedpro- (forward) + pel (push) = push forward. The most literal member of the family: a propeller and rocket propulsion both propel a vehicle ahead. The figurative use is just as direct — a scandal can propel someone to fame, driving them forward whether they planned it or not.
Root pel still carries 52 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.propel forward向前推进
- 2.propel to fame一举成名
- 3.jet-propelled喷气推进的
- 4.propel growth推动增长
Example Sentences
- 1.
Powerful engines propel the ship across the ocean.
- 2.
The hit single propelled the band to international fame.
- 3.
Fear propelled him out of the burning building.