What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
towing
Example
The car broke down on the highway, so we had to call a tow truck to tow it to the mechanic. [tow: verb]
Example
The towing company charged us a fee for towing our car from the no-parking zone. [towing: gerund or present participle]
pulling
Example
I am pulling the suitcase behind me as I walk to the airport gate. [pulling: present participle]
Example
The horse is pulling the cart loaded with hay. [pull: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pulling is more commonly used than towing in everyday language. Pulling is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while towing is more specific and often associated with transportation and logistics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between towing and pulling?
Both towing and pulling can be used in formal and informal contexts, but towing may be more formal due to its association with professional services such as tow trucks and emergency roadside assistance.
