Quote
1. Quote - Listen to the quote and guess what the slang means.
“The material’s not really what you expect from Jane Austen. It’s extremely edgy and sort of envelope-pushing and very, very funny.”
Actress Kate Beckinsale, speaking about her new film, “Love and Friendship” (npr.org)
Definition
1. Definition - Study the definition.
do something new and different; do something better
2. Use - Learn how the slang is used.
Do you like to do things the old-fashioned way, or do you prefer to try something new? For example, maybe, you are going to a formal dinner party. Will you play it safe with a nice black suit or dress, or will you push the envelope with something new and exciting? Maybe, a purple hat, some orange shoes, or a bright green belt could add excitement and color to your ensemble!
To push the envelope means to do something differently from how it is traditionally done. A song that pushes the envelope might have controversial lyrics, like Beyonce’s “Formation.” An artist who pushes the envelope might direct strange, artistic movies, like Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Some people love for art, music, and tech to be new and surprising. However, others prefer for things to be done the old-fashioned way. Actress Kate Beckinsale was surprised that her new film, “Love and Friendship,” had a funny, edgy script. It is based on a story that was written over 100 years ago, so she did not expect it to push the envelope!
Do you like movies that push the envelope?
Examples
1. Examples - Hear some example sentences.
“Eminem is probably going to push the envelope with his new album.”
“My brother is always trying to push the envelope with my parents, but sometimes he goes too far. “
“Each year, Apple releases new products that push the envelope.”