Pull Off: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
September 8, 2023

"Pull off" is an idiom that refers to overcoming challenges, risks, or doubts and achieving a good result. It implies that the result is somewhat excellent or impressive, either to the one who did it or to others who saw it.

In short:

  • It means to succeed in doing something difficult or unexpected.
  • It can be used in various situations to describe achievements, performances, actions, or events that are challenging, surprising, or impressive.

What Does "Pull Off" Mean?

The idiom "pull off" generally means succeeding in doing something complex or unexpected. It implies that the person or thing that "pulls something off" has overcome obstacles, risks, or doubts and achieved a positive outcome. It also suggests that the result is somewhat surprising or impressive, either to the person who did it or others who witnessed it.

Where Does "Pull Off" Come From?

The idiom "pull off" originated from the literal sense of pulling something off or away from something else by force. This sense can be traced back to the 15th century and is still used today. From the literal meaning of pulling something off, the figurative sense of succeeding in doing something complex or unexpected emerged in the 19th century.

Historical Example

"Three times he has left governmental posts, …after brave displays of political pluck; and now, for the fourth time he pulls off his cabinet cloak and throws it in the faces of his old fogy associates."

—The Wilmington Daily Herald, 1856

10 Examples of "Pull Off" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences and contexts:

  • Way to go! He pulled off a surprise proposal, and she said yes.
  • Yaas! She pulled off a difficult exam and got an A.
  • He pulled off a brilliant move in a time crunch and checkmated his opponent.
  • She pulled off a daring escape and ran away from her captors. Great job!
  • She pulled off a stunning outfit and turned heads at the party. Drop-dead gorgeous, indeed!
  • About last night, she pulled off a clever prank and scared her friends at the Halloween party.
  • He pulled off a smooth transition and assumed the position of leader.
  • No mean feat. She pulled off a huge upset and beat the favorite in the competition.
  • I have no words for the performance he did. He pulled off an incredible comeback and won the game.
  • No diggity. She pulled off a spectacular feat and broke the world record.

Examples of "Pull Off" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how the idiom appeared in pop culture:

  • In the movie Ocean's Eleven (2001), Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and his team "pull off" a heist to rob three casinos in Las Vegas.
  • In the TV show Breaking Bad (2008-2013), Walter White (Bryan Cranston) and Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) "pull off" various schemes to produce and sell methamphetamine.
  • In the book Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997), Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) and his friends "pull off" a series of tasks to prevent Lord Voldemort from getting the Philosopher's Stone.

Other Ways to Say "Pull Off"

Some synonyms and related expressions for this idiom are:

  • Accomplish
  • Manage
  • Bring off
  • Carry off
  • Achieve
  • Execute
  • Perform
  • Complete
  • Realize
  • Fulfill

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Pull Off"

Some frequently asked questions about this idiom are:

  • What does "pull off" mean?

"Pull off" is an idiom that refers to overcoming challenges, risks, or doubts and achieving a good result. It implies that the result is somewhat excellent or impressive, either to the one who did it or to others who saw it.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "pull off"?

The idiom "pull off" originated from the literal sense of pulling something off or away from something else by force. This sense can be traced back to the 15th century and is still used today.

  • What is another word for "pull off"?

There are many other words for "pull off" that have similar meanings, such as accomplish, manage, bring off, carry off, achieve, execute, perform, complete, or fulfill. You can use any of these words to express the same idea as "pull off," depending on the context and tone of your sentence.

  • How do you use "pull off" in a sentence?

You can use "pull off" in a sentence to describe succeeding in doing something complex or unexpected. You can use it as a verb with an object, such as "He pulled off a miracle" or "She pulled off a great speech." You can also use it as a phrasal verb with an adverb, such as "He pulled it off" or "She pulled off well."

  • Is "pull off" formal or informal?

"Pull off" is an informal expression primarily used in spoken language or casual writing. It is not considered very formal or academic and may not be appropriate for some situations or audiences. For more formal or professional contexts, you may want to use words with similar meanings, such as accomplish, achieve, execute, perform, or complete.

  • What is the opposite of "pull off"?

The opposite of "pull off" is to fail, mess up, screw up, botch, or ruin. These words mean to do something poorly or unsuccessfully, especially when you have high hopes or expectations. They imply that you have faced difficulties or problems and achieved a negative outcome. They also suggest that the result is disappointing or embarrassing to yourself or others who witnessed it.

  • What is the difference between "pull off" and "pull out"?

"Pull off" and "pull out" are idioms with different meanings and uses. "Pull off" means to succeed in doing something complex or unexpected, as explained above. "Pull out" means to withdraw from or stop doing something, usually because of difficulty or danger.

  • How do you say "pull off" in other languages?

The idiom "pull off" can be translated into other languages using words or expressions similar to succeeding in something complex or unexpected. However, idioms are not always literal translations and may vary depending on the culture and context. Here are some possible ways to say "pull off" in other languages:

Spanish: lograr, conseguir, salirse con la suya
French: réussir, parvenir à faire quelque chose
German: schaffen, zustande bringen

  • What are some synonyms for "pull off" in sports?

In sports, "pull off" is often used to describe winning a game, match, tournament, etc., especially against a stronger opponent or after being behind. Some synonyms for "pull off" in sports are win, beat, defeat, overcome, outplay, outsmart, and upset.

  • What are some synonyms for "pull off" in entertainment?

In entertainment, "pull off" is often used to describe performing well in a show, movie, song, etc., especially when facing criticism or low expectations. Some synonyms for "pull off" in entertainment are deliver, impress, shine, nail, rock, and steal the show.

Final Thoughts About "Pull Off"

"Pull off" is a common and versatile idiom that means to succeed in doing something complex or unexpected. It can be used in various situations and contexts to describe achievements, performances, actions, or events that are challenging, surprising, or impressive.

More basic information about the idiom:

  • It originated from the literal sense of pulling something off or away from something else.
  • It can be a synonym for other expressions that convey similar meanings.
  • It can also be used in various situations and contexts where people face difficulties or competition and achieve something positive.

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