push the right buttons
phrase
informal
: to do the things that are needed to produce a desired effect or result
The coach knows how to push all the right buttons to get his players ready for the game.
Cite this Entry
“Push the right buttons.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/push%20the%20right%20buttons. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.
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