Differences between pull apart and pull away
Pull apart means to separate or disassemble something, while pull away means to move away or detach oneself from someone or something.
Meanings and Definitions: pull apart vs pull away
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Pull apart
- 1Destroy an argument, theory, etc.
My tutor PULLED my essay APART.
- 2Stop people or animals fighting.
A fight broke out in the pub and it was hard to PULL the people involved APART.
- 3Make someone unhappy or upset.
It PULLED me APART to see them arguing so much.
Pull away
- 1When a vehicle moves from a place.
The car PULLED AWAY from the lights at high speed.
Usage Examples: pull apart, pull away in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
pull apart
Example
She tried to pull apart the tangled wires.
Example
He pulls apart the old furniture to recycle the wood.
pull away
Example
The bus pulls away from the bus stop.
Example
She pulls away from the curb carefully.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pull apart
To take apart or disassemble a structure or object.
Example
The workers had to dismantle the old building before constructing the new one.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pull away
To remove oneself from a situation or relationship.
Example
She decided to withdraw from the project due to personal reasons.
To release or detach oneself from a physical or emotional connection.
Example
The athlete had to disengage from the opponent to avoid a penalty during the game.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pull”
Phrasal Verbs with “apart”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in pull apart vs pull away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pull apart or pull away?
In daily conversation, people use pull away more often than pull apart. This is because pull away is used for more common situations such as leaving a place or ending a conversation. Pull apart is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about separating things. So, while both phrases are used, pull away is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pull apart and pull away
Pull apart and pull away are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of pull apart and pull away
The tone of pull apart and pull away can differ based on context. Pull apart often carries a practical or analytical tone when related to separating objects or analyzing a situation, while pull away typically has an emotional or hesitant tone, especially when referring to distancing oneself from a person or situation.
