push back the clock

push back the clock

To revisit, recount, return to or recreate a time or era from the past. The purpose of this conference is to push back the clock by analyzing early human remains and try to gain insight into their way of life. The governor is bent on pushing back the clock and returning us to the ethics of the 1950s.
See also: back, clock, push
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • put back the clock
  • set back the clock
  • roll back the clock
  • turn back the clock
  • turn the clock back, to
  • set the/(one's) clock(s) back
  • put the/(one's) clock(s) back
  • put/turn the clock back
  • move the/(one's) clock(s) back
  • turn the/(one's) clock(s) back
References in periodicals archive
Claire Rees tried the Espa Lift and Firm Facial at St David's Marine Spa, Cardiff Bay What they say This age-defying facial, packed with potent ingredients to push back the clock, is developed to treat fine lines, nurture skin, helping it to look soft, smooth and radiantly youthful.
Is it worth it?
Maybe it's time Israel stopped trying to push back the clock and joined the twenty-first century--that Israel got in line with the rest of the world, got over its own iron-minded paranoia, ended its bloody occupation of the Palestinian territories and started working for peace and justice.
Iron on the brain
"The proposals would push back the clock on women's hard-won independence, increasing fathers' powers and further endangering the safety of single mothers and children," the spokeswoman said.
Watchdog attacks child support agency for 'inexplicable delays'