bulldoze

Imagine a powerful machine flattening trees in its path—that’s what this verb does literally. But it doesn’t stop there. To bulldoze can also mean to push something through, whether it is an obstacle, a plan, or people’s objections. A politician might bulldoze a bill through Congress, ignoring dissenting voices. Likewise, someone with a forceful personality might bulldoze their way into getting what they want. It implies a lack of finesse and a lot of power, like steamrolling everything in your path.

The word "bulldoze" is most commonly associated with the action of using a bulldozer—a large, powerful machine with a broad metal blade—to clear land or build roads. That image helps explain the broader meaning: forcefully and relentlessly clearing away obstacles.

However, "bulldoze" has expanded far beyond physical landscapes. It now frequently describes the figurative clearing away of resistance. To bulldoze someone means to overwhelm them with forcefulness, ignoring their feelings or opinions in order to achieve a goal. For example, the sentence "He tried to bulldoze me into agreeing with his plan" suggests he was aggressively pushing for acceptance without considering my perspective.

It can also mean pushing a project or idea forward quickly and decisively, even if that means bypassing rules or proper procedures. For example, “The company bulldozed ahead with the project despite safety concerns” suggests reckless speed and reduced concern for consequences. Because of this, the word often carries a negative connotation, suggesting an aggressive and insensitive approach.

While a bulldozer is a vital tool in construction, to bulldoze something—be it a person, an idea, or a plan—suggests a forceful, uncompromising method that leaves little room for negotiation. It is about getting things done, but not necessarily doing them nicely.