What are the definitions of “pull out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start moving ( train ).
The train was PULLING OUT when I got there.
- 2Move into traffic.
The traffic was so bad that it took me ages to PULL OUT.
- 3Withdraw.
The project was going badly and they decided to PULL OUT.
- 4Remove soldiers from an area.
People want the government to PULL the troops OUT.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pull out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pull out is to remove something or someone from a place or situation. For example, it can mean taking an object out of a container, withdrawing from a project, or removing soldiers from an area.
What are the different verb forms of “pull out”?
| Root Verb | pull out |
| Third Person Singular Present | pulls out |
| Present Participle | pulling out |
| Simple Past | pulled out |
| Past Participle | pulled out |
Example
She had to pull out a splinter from her finger.
Example
He pulls out his wallet to pay for the meal.
Example
The dentist is pulling out the patient's tooth.
Example
They pulled out of the competition due to lack of funds.
Example
The troops were pulled out of the conflict zone.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pull out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“pull out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She pulled out a book from her bag.
Example
The company pulled out of the project.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“pull out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She pulled out a book from her bag.
Example
The company pulled out of the project.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pull out”?
Pull out all the stops
To make every possible effort or use all available resources to achieve something.
Example
They pulled out all the stops to make the event a success.
Pull out of a deal
To withdraw from an agreement or negotiation.
Example
The company decided to pull out of the deal due to financial concerns.
Pull out a win
To achieve victory in a difficult or unexpected situation.
Example
Despite being behind for most of the game, the team managed to pull out a win in the final minutes.
Good things to know
Does “pull out” have an informal or formal tone?
Pull out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business negotiations or news reports. The specific context will determine the level of formality.
