pull

In contrast to 'push', the verb 'to pull', while equally vigorous, carries within it a different force and direction. And again, the verb can be used metaphorically.

Its simple meaning is 'to exert force on an object so that the object is drawn towards the force itself'.

Here are some applications:

• to pull a tooth is to extract a tooth
• to pull feathers is to pluck feathers from a bird
• to pull a muscle is to strain a muscle
• and, in recent food articles, 'pulled chicken' or 'pulled beef' means to tear into small, fine pieces once the flesh is cooked

Be aware that 'pull' is often partnered with prepositions that change the direction of the movement in the word.

Prepositions are often awkward for speakers to conquer when learning a new language. With this in mind, be aware of the direction that is built into the preposition when found in these common combinations:

• pull in
• pull away
• pull towards
• pull on
• pull off
• pull against
• pull through
• pull back
• pull down
• pull about
• pull up

Compare 'to pull' with 'to push' which was published last week.