What are the definitions of “pull ahead”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Overtake, move in front.
The lorry was going slowly but we managed to PULL AHEAD.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pull ahead”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pull ahead is to overtake or move in front of someone or something, especially in a race or competition. It is often used to describe vehicles or people moving faster than others.
What are the different verb forms of “pull ahead”?
| Root Verb | pull ahead |
| Third Person Singular Present | pulls ahead |
| Present Participle | pulling ahead |
| Simple Past | pulled ahead |
| Past Participle | pulled ahead |
Example
The car pulled ahead of the truck on the highway.
Example
She pulls ahead of the other runners in the final stretch.
Example
The cyclist is pulling ahead of the pack.
Example
Our team pulled ahead in the last few minutes of the game.
Example
The horse pulled ahead and won the race.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pull ahead”?
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 ahead” 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
The car pulled ahead of the truck on the highway.
Example
She pulled ahead of the other runners in the final stretch.
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 ahead” 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
The car pulled ahead of the truck on the highway.
Example
She pulled ahead of the other runners in the final stretch.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pull ahead”?
Pull ahead of the competition
To surpass competitors in a business or industry.
Example
Our company has pulled ahead of the competition with our innovative products.
Good things to know
Does “pull ahead” have an informal or formal tone?
Pull ahead is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as news reports or business discussions.
