Pulled: meaning, definitions and examples

To move something towards you or in a certain direction with steady force. Often used for lighter objects or when the effort is not overly strenuous.

• She pulled the door open.
• He pulled the book off the shelf.

To pull something with effort and difficulty, often because it is heavy or stuck. Can imply frustration or reluctance.

• She had to drag the suitcase up the stairs.
• He dragged the boat onto the shore.

To pull or drag something with a lot of effort. Typically used for very heavy or bulky items that require significant strength to move.

• We had to haul the logs to the campsite.
• They hauled the car out of the ditch.

To pull something quickly and forcefully, often in a short, jerky motion. Usually used for smaller or lighter objects, or to indicate a sudden effort.

• The toddler tugged on his mother's sleeve.
• She gave the rope a quick tug.

Used when talking about drawing something out or moving it towards yourself with force or effort. Commonly used in physical actions.

• He pulled the door open.
• She pulled the rope with all her strength.

Used when taking something out with care or effort, often from within something else. It is used in both literal and figurative contexts.

• The dentist will extract the tooth next week.
• The scientist extracted DNA from the sample.

Used when taking something away from a place or position. It can be used in a variety of situations from physical removal to abstract concepts.

• Please remove your shoes before entering the house.
• They removed the old files from the system.

Used when picking something quickly and often with a sharp movement, typically used for small items like feathers, hairs, or strings.

• She plucked a grey hair from her head.
• He plucked a guitar string to make sure it was in tune.

Use when referring to something being moved towards oneself with a physical force.

• He pulled the door open.
• She pulled the chair closer to the table.

Use when describing the action of pulling something along the ground, typically with difficulty.

• They had to drag the heavy suitcase up the stairs.
• The dog tried to drag the stick back to its owner.

Use when talking about striking something or someone with a forceful impact. Often can have a negative connotation.

• He accidentally hit his head on the low ceiling.
• The boxer hit his opponent with a strong punch.

Use when describing a small burst of air, smoke, or steam, or the act of exhaling forcefully.

• She took a puff of her cigarette.
• A puff of steam came out of the kettle.