Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Pull” — 10 Other Ways to Say It
To move something toward you by holding and dragging it.
Meanings of Pull — Pick the Sense You Need
Pull has 3 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.
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Meaning #1
as a verb
To move something toward you by holding and dragging it.
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Meaning #2
as a noun
A force or action that draws something closer or creates attraction.
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Meaning #3
as a verb
To stretch a muscle or tendon painfully during physical activity.
4 Synonyms for Pull (Meaning #1 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use pull as a verb. Meaning: To move something toward you by holding and dragging it.
drag
/dræɡ/To pull something heavy or with effort, usually along a surface.
Example: The child dragged his bag across the floor.
draw
/drɔː/End a game or match without a winner; both players or teams have equal points
Example: The match ended in a draw after both teams scored two goals.
4 Synonyms for Pull (Meaning #2 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use pull as a noun. Meaning: A force or action that draws something closer or creates attraction.
force
/fɔːrs/Strength that pushes or moves something; power applied to make something happen.
Example: The force of the wind knocked down the trees.
draw
/drɔː/End a game or match without a winner; both players or teams have equal points
Example: The match ended in a draw after both teams scored two goals.
4 Synonyms for Pull (Meaning #3 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use pull as a verb. Meaning: To stretch a muscle or tendon painfully during physical activity.
tear
/tɪər/A small amount of salty water that comes out of your eye when you cry.
Example: She wiped away a tear from her cheek after hearing the sad news.
injure
/ˈɪndʒər/To hurt someone's body or cause them physical pain or damage.
Example: He fell from the ladder and injured his ankle.
stretch
/stretʃ/Make something longer or wider, or extend your arms and legs.
Example: I stretch my arms before exercise.
Smart Synonyms for Pull — When to Use Each
drag
for something heavy or along a surface
tug
for a quick short movement
haul
for moving heavy loads over distance
How to Use Pull and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- Pull the door to open it. A1
- She pulled the rope with all her strength. A2
- The truck pulled into the parking lot. B1
- Give the rope a pull to ring the bell. A2
- The pull of gravity keeps us on Earth. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Pull
What is another word for "pull"?
Common synonyms for "pull" include: drag, tug, draw, haul, force.
What can I say instead of "pull"?
Try one of these alternatives: drag, tug, draw, haul, force. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "pull" formal or informal?
"pull" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "pull" instead of "drag"?
Use "pull" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "drag" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.