Phrasal verb
pull off
Meanings
To succeed in doing something difficult, surprising, or impressive.
To remove something by pulling it away, especially clothing or a cover.
Definition
To pull off means to succeed in doing something difficult or impressive.
When you pull off something, you manage to do it successfully, often despite problems, pressure, or low expectations. It is commonly used for achievements, performances, or plans that seemed hard to complete. It can also mean to remove something by pulling it away from where it is attached.
Examples
- I can’t believe I pulled off that presentation with only one night to prepare.
- You pulled off a great surprise party for your sister.
- She pulled off the stained shirt as soon as she got home.
- They pulled off the upset win in the final minutes of the match.
Common mistake
Learners often say "pull out" instead of "pull off" when they mean succeed (e.g., "pull out the plan" instead of "pull off the plan").
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.