Differences between pull down and pull up
Pull down usually means to demolish or destroy a building or structure, whereas pull up generally means to stop a vehicle or bring it to a halt.
Meanings and Definitions: pull down vs pull up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Pull down
- 1Demolish.
They PULLED the old cinema DOWN to build a new shopping mall.
- 2Make someone depressed.
Losing her job PULLED her DOWN.
- 3Earn.
He's PULLING DOWN a fortune.
Pull up
- 1Slow and stop a car.
The cab PULLED UP outside my house and I got out.
- 2Inform someone that they are wrong.
He PULLED me UP because I had got my facts wrong.
Usage Examples: pull down, pull up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
pull down
Example
The city decided to pull down the abandoned factory.
Example
She pulls down the old posters from her wall.
pull up
Example
The bus pulled up at the bus stop.
Example
She pulls up in front of the store to pick up her groceries.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pull down
bring down
To cause the downfall or destruction of something or someone.
Example
The corruption scandal brought down the government and led to early elections.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pull up
To bring a vehicle or oneself to a halt.
Example
He stopped the car at the red light and waited for it to turn green.
To bring a vehicle to a stationary position and leave it there.
Example
She parked her car in the garage and went inside the house.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pull”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- put down
- trickle down
- pare down
- beat down
- stick down
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in pull down vs pull up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pull down or pull up?
In daily conversation, people use pull up more often than pull down. This is because pull up is used in various situations such as stopping a car, arriving at a destination, or lifting something up. Pull down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about demolishing or destroying something. So, while both phrases are used, pull up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pull down and pull up
Pull up and pull down 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 down and pull up
The tone of pull up and pull down can differ based on context. Pull up often carries a practical or urgent tone when related to stopping a vehicle or arriving at a destination, while pull down typically has a serious and sometimes negative tone, especially when referring to demolishing or destroying something.
