Phrasal verb
pull through
Meanings
to survive a serious illness, accident, or crisis and recover
to succeed in a difficult situation or time, especially with effort or help
Definition
To survive a difficult situation or illness and recover.
“Pull through” most commonly means to survive a serious illness, accident, or other crisis and get better. It emphasizes that the situation was difficult but the person or thing continues to exist or function. It can also mean to manage to succeed despite problems, especially with help or effort.
Examples
- I didn’t think I would pull through, but I’m feeling stronger every day.
- She pulled through after the accident and started walking again months later.
- They pulled through the hardest winter by sharing supplies with neighbors.
- You can pull through this busy week if you take breaks and ask for help.
Common mistake
Learners often say “pull over” or “pull out” when they mean “pull through” for surviving or recovering.
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.