Tugging: meaning, definitions and examples

Great for describing a quick, forceful pull, usually in short bursts. Often used with smaller objects or in casual situations.

• The child was tugging on his mother's sleeve
• He felt a tugging sensation on his fishing line

A general term for moving something towards oneself or in a specific direction. It is quite versatile and can be used in many situations.

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

Used when moving something heavy or difficult to move, typically along the ground. Often implies some effort and resistance.

• She had to drag the suitcase up the stairs
• The dog was dragging a large stick across the yard

Fits best when describing the act of pulling or carrying something very heavy or in significant quantities over a considerable distance. Often used in the context of transportation or labor.

• They had to haul the equipment up the hill
• The fishermen hauled in their nets

Describes a sudden, sharp pull, usually more forceful and abrupt than 'tug.' Often used in situations requiring quick action or when something is stuck.

• He yanked the cord to start the engine
• She yanked her hand out of the drawer

Used when applying a series of quick, forceful pulls, often in a situation where resistance is encountered.

• The dog kept tugging at the leash, eager to run free.
• She felt someone tugging at her sleeve in the crowded street.

A general term used for moving something towards oneself or in a particular direction. Can denote a wide range of intensities.

• He was pulling his friend out of the deep snow.
• She was pulling the door shut to keep out the cold.

Typically describes moving something heavy or reluctant across the ground with considerable effort.

• He was dragging the heavy suitcase up the stairs.
• After the party, they were dragging the tables back into storage.

Often used for moving heavy loads over a distance, usually involves a lot of effort or a vehicle.

• The truck was hauling a load of furniture to the new house.
• Farmers were hauling the harvested crops to the storage barn.