What does the phrasal verb “pull for” mean?

What are the definitions of “pull for”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Support.

  Who will you be PULLING FOR in the final?

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pull for”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pull for is to support someone or something, usually in a competition or contest. It means you want that person or team to win or succeed.

What are the different verb forms of “pull for”?

Root Verb	pull for
Third Person Singular Present	pulls for
Present Participle	pulling for
Simple Past	pulled for
Past Participle	pulled for

Example

I always pull for my favorite team during the World Cup.

Example

She pulls for her brother in every race he participates in.

Example

We are pulling for our friend who is competing in the talent show.

Example

Last year, they pulled for the underdog team in the championship.

Example

He has always pulled for his favorite athlete in the Olympics.

What kind of phrasal verb is “pull for”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“pull for” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

I pull for my favorite team.

Example

She pulls for her brother in every race.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“pull for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

I pull for my favorite team.

Example

She pulls for her brother in every race.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pull for”?

Pull for someone

To support or encourage someone in their efforts or endeavors.

Example

We are all pulling for you to succeed in your new job.

Pull for a team

To support a specific sports team or athlete.

Example

During the basketball season, I always pull for my hometown team.

Pull for a cause

To support a specific cause or movement.

Example

Many people pull for environmental conservation and climate change awareness.

Good things to know

Does “pull for” have an informal or formal tone?

Pull for is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or written documents. Instead, more formal synonyms like 'support' or 'endorse' can be used.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “pull for”?

Synonyms

• support
• back
• encourage
• endorse
• cheer for
• root for

Antonyms

• oppose
• discourage
• protest
• object
• resist