Reading Theme:
Pull: Meaning, Examples, and Common Usage (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：move towards oneself by tugging (pull)
pull
/pʊl/
v.
to move something towards you by holding it and moving it
move towards oneself by tugging
➕
/muːv təˈwɔːdz wʌnˈself baɪ ˈtʌɡɪŋ/
v.
To use force to move something toward you, often by holding a part of it and drawing it in your direction.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English pullian, meaning 'to pluck, draw, or tug'.
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a 'pull' sign on a door: you use your hand to pull it towards you. Easy!
📖 Example
She had to pull the heavy door open to enter the room.
She had to pull the heavy door open to enter the room.
🔗 Collocations
pull a door – open or close a door by pulling it
pull a rope – exert force on a rope to bring it closer
pull a lever – operate a lever by pulling it
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
push (v.) – exert force to move something away
🌱 Derivatives
puller (n.) – a person or thing that pulls
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'pull' has been used since Old English times in physical contexts like pulling ropes or doors, and later extended metaphorically to attract attention. Its simplicity makes it a core verb in English.
Meaning 2：attract interest or attention (pull)
pull
/pʊl/
v.
to attract attention or interest, like drawing people in
attract interest or attention
➕
/əˈtrækt ˈɪntrəst ɔːr əˈtɛnʃən/
v.
To draw people's attention or interest, often by being appealing or exciting.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The new movie is expected to pull a large audience.
The new movie is expected to pull a large audience.
🔗 Collocations
pull a crowd – attract a large number of people
pull customers – attract customers to a business
pull viewers – attract television or online viewers
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
repel (v.) – to drive away or discourage interest
🌱 Derivatives
pulling power (n.) – the ability to attract people or attention
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