What are the definitions of “pull back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Score a goal or point when losing.
They were two - nil down until five minutes before the end, when they PULLED BACK a goal.
- 2Move away from a place, especially when talking about soldiers.
They have PULLED the troops BACK from the front line.
- 3Move away from someone.
She PULLED BACK when he tried to kiss her.
- 4Decide not to do something or not to be involved with it any longer.
They PULLED BACK from the deal.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pull back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pull back is to move away from a place or situation, often to avoid danger or conflict. It can be used to describe people, objects, or even emotions.
What are the different verb forms of “pull back”?
| Root Verb | pull back |
| Third Person Singular Present | pulls back |
| Present Participle | pulling back |
| Simple Past | pulled back |
| Past Participle | pulled back |
Example
The cat pulled back when it saw the dog approaching.
Example
She pulls back her hand when she touches the hot stove.
Example
The army is pulling back from the border to avoid conflict.
Example
He pulled back from the deal at the last minute.
Example
The troops had pulled back to a safer position.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pull back”?
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 back” 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 soldiers pulled back to avoid an ambush.
Example
She pulled back when he tried to hug her.
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 back” 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 soldiers pulled back to avoid an ambush.
Example
She pulled back when he tried to hug her.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pull back”?
Good things to know
Does “pull back” have an informal or formal tone?
Pull back 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 official documents.
