Phrasal verb
pull up
Meanings
To stop a vehicle, usually after arriving near a place.
To lift or move something upward or closer into position.
To open or display information on a computer or phone screen.
Definition
To pull up means to stop, often in a vehicle, or to move something closer or upward.
Pull up is a common phrasal verb used when a vehicle stops after moving toward a place. It can also mean to raise or lift something (like a chair, socks, or a zipper) so it sits higher or closer. In casual speech, it is also used for opening something on a screen, such as a file or information.
Examples
- I pulled up in front of the library to drop off the books.
- Could you pull up a chair and join us for dinner?
- He pulled up the map on his phone to check the route.
- She pulled up outside the station and waited for her friend.
Common mistake
Learners often forget that for vehicles the natural phrasing is “pull up” (stop) rather than “pull up to” for every situation, and they may overuse “to” where it is not needed.
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.