"Hit the button" is sometimes used informally, especially in casual conversations, but "press the button" or "push the button" is more standard and commonly used in formal and everyday language.

"Hit the button" is an informal expression used in English, especially in casual conversations. When you "hit the button," you are applying force to the button with your finger or hand, usually to make something happen. This action is often associated with electronic devices, machines, or systems that have buttons as controls. For example, you might "hit the button" to turn on a light, start a machine, launch a software application, or open an electronic door.

It's important to note that "hit the button" is a less formal way of saying "press the button" or "push the button," which are more common in standard English. So, if you want to be more formal, it's better to use "press" or "push" instead of "hit" when referring to buttons.

Idiom: "press/push someone's buttons"

The expression "press someone's button" is an idiomatic phrase used in English to describe a situation where someone says or does something that triggers a strong emotional reaction or response from another person. It means to say or do something that affects someone deeply, often causing them to become upset, angry, annoyed, or excited.

The phrase is derived from the idea of pressing a metaphorical button that activates an emotional response in someone, much like how pressing a physical button activates a specific function. In this context, the emotional response can be positive or negative, depending on the context and the individual's feelings towards the subject or situation.

For example, if a person has a particular sensitivity or vulnerability, mentioning that topic may "press their button" and evoke a strong emotional reaction. Similarly, someone might "press someone's button" by intentionally provoking them, which can lead to a heated argument or emotional outburst.

It's essential to note that "press someone's button" is usually used informally and figuratively to describe emotional reactions rather than actual physical buttons.

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Reference:

press/push someone’s buttons
1. to cause a strong reaction or emotion in someone: 2. to cause a strong…