What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
drag
Example
I had to drag the couch across the room to make space. [drag: verb]
Example
The injured player dragged himself off the field. [drag: verb]
Example
She was dragged to the party by her friends even though she didn't want to go. [dragged: past tense]
pull
Example
Can you help me pull this heavy box up the stairs? [pull: verb]
Example
She pulled the curtains shut to block out the sunlight. [pulled: past tense]
Example
He pulled the dog away from the street to avoid getting hit by a car. [pull: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pull is more commonly used than drag in everyday language. Pull is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while drag is less common and often used in specific situations where something is difficult to move.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between drag and pull?
Both drag and pull can be used in formal and informal contexts, but pull is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.