Pull out all the stops: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Pull out all the stops” mean?

"Pull out all the stops" means to make a great effort or use all available resources in order to achieve something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

We need to pull out all the stops to win this competition.

Example

The team pulled out all the stops to deliver the project on time.

Example

She decided to pull out all the stops to throw the best party ever

Is “Pull out all the stops” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Pull out all the stops” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Pull out all the stops” effectively in context?

You can use "Pull out all the stops" to emphasize the need for a maximum effort or the use of all available resources to achieve a goal. Here are three distinct situations where you can effectively use this phrase:

• 1. Competition

  We need to pull out all the stops to win this competition.

• 2. Work

  The team pulled out all the stops to deliver the project on time.

• 3. Party Planning

  She decided to pull out all the stops to throw the best party ever.

Similar phrases to “Pull out all the stops”:

Go the extra mile

To make an additional effort or go beyond what is expected

Example

He always goes the extra mile to help his colleagues.

Leave no stone unturned

To make every possible effort or search thoroughly

Example

They left no stone unturned in their investigation.

Give it one's all

To put in maximum effort or give something one's best

Example

She gave it her all in the final performance.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Pull out all the stops” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Pull out all the stops" can be traced back to pipe organs. In pipe organs, there are stops that control the flow of air to different sets of pipes, producing different sounds. When all the stops are pulled out, it allows for the maximum volume and variety of sounds. Over time, this phrase evolved to mean using all available resources or making a great effort to achieve something.

Is “Pull out all the stops” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Pull out all the stops" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to express the idea of making a great effort or using all available resources to achieve a goal.

What tone does “Pull out all the stops” have?

"Pull out all the stops" conveys a tone of determination and urgency. It suggests going above and beyond to achieve success.

Can “Pull out all the stops” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Pull out all the stops" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of putting in maximum effort. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'We need to pull out all the stops and give it our best shot.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "pull out all the stops"!' to imply readiness for a maximum effort.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• make every effort
• put in a maximum effort
• leave nothing on the table
• give it everything one's got
• exert oneself fully

Antonyms

• take it easy
• hold back
• do the bare minimum
• half-hearted effort
• lackadaisical approach