When push comes to shove

From Fresh Dictionary

English

Expression

when push comes to shove

1. ((idiomatic{{#if:|, {{{2}}}{{#if:|, {{{3}}}{{#if:|, {{{4}}}{{#if:|, {{{5}}}{{#if:|, {{{6}}}{{#if:|, {{{7}}}{{#if:|, {{{8}}}{{#if:|, {{{9}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}})) When the pressure is on; when the situation is critical or urgent; when the time has come for action, even if it is difficult.

   He's not an extremely talented builder, but when push comes to shove, he can usually get the job done.

See also

• in a pinch
• when the chips are down
• when the gloves come off