pull
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /pʊl/
KK: /pʊl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To exert force to move something closer or toward oneself, often by using one's hands or body.
Example
He decided to pull on the rope to bring the boat closer to the dock.
Tense Forms
Past: pulled
Past Participle: pulled
Conversation
Did you see how hard he had to pull to get that boat moving?
Yeah, it looked like a real workout for him!
I can't believe he managed to pull it across the lake by himself.
I know, right? That takes some serious strength!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
row
draw
tug
Antonyms
push
release
letgo
noun
Definition
A force or effort used to draw something closer, or the ability to attract or influence others.
Example
The pull of the magnet was strong enough to lift the metal object off the table.
Conversation
Did you feel the pull of the tide when we were at the beach?
Yeah, it was really strong!
I love how the ocean has that kind of pull on us.
transitive verb
Definition
To use force to move something towards oneself or to draw something closer.
Example
She had to pull the heavy box across the floor.
Tense Forms
Past: pulled
Past Participle: pulled
Conversation
I need to pull the weeds from my garden this weekend.
That sounds like a big job! Do you want some help?
Yeah, that would be awesome! I could really use an extra pair of hands to pull them out quickly.
Root Explanation
The word 'pull' originates from Middle English 'pullen', which is derived from Old English 'pullian', meaning to pluck or draw. It does not have clear Latin or Greek roots but is related to the act of drawing something towards oneself.
Memory Tip
Think of the action of 'drawing' something closer to you — that's what 'pull' means.
Visually Confused Words
ull
pul
uppull
pulvil
pulpal