pull branches

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pull branches" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of grasping and moving branches, often in the context of gardening, tree trimming, or exploring nature. Example: "To get a better view of the bird's nest, I had to pull branches aside carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Mr. Frohling used to pull branches from the tree to make Christmas decorations, and he and his wife would take the decorations to the cemetery down the road and put them on the graves of their loved ones, including his father, John, an iron molder who died in 1967.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Aqp1b, however, clustered significantly outside the Aqp1a and Aqp1b subgroups, which may be a result of the well-known long-branch attraction effect that can pull long branches towards the outgroup (in this case the tetrapods).

BMC Evolutionary Biology

The greater growth of CW on the lower side branches helps to push the branches up; while the lower MFA and higher stiffness in OW could contribute to pull up branches against gravitational force.

BMC Genomics

Then, using the handle, I would pull the branches and calmly pick the apples from them.

The Guardian - Books

"Change your position, get higher, get lower, get someone to pull a branch away for a second," he said.

The New York Times

Those who don't understand that none of it was personal, and can't see the ridiculous humor in it, probably need to pull the branch out of their asses and do some serious introspection.

Huffington Post

With a light hand, begin to pull off branching corms.

WikiHow

Mr. Maynard started lashing out against the trees in mid-June, Mr. Kavanagh said, pulling down branches on about 40 of them.

The New York Times

My five-course meal began with a botanical lesson in the Felixes' backyard, where the chef pulled at branches, plucking leaves of pineapple sage and lemon balm before passing them off to be scratched and sniffed.

The New York Times - Travel

Though the snowfall might have been relatively mild by winter standards, the unusual timing created what Mr. Blonsky described as a "perfect storm" of tree damage: The snow became suspended on leaves, pulling down branches and, in some cases, entire trees.

The New York Times

The nest is then built by pulling together branches under them and joining them at a point.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pull branches" in writing, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a literal action involving tree limbs or a more metaphorical detachment, such as withdrawing support or resources from a subsidiary or project.

Common error

Avoid using "pull branches" metaphorically if it could be misunderstood as a literal instruction or if a clearer, more direct phrase would better convey your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pull branches" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "pull" is the verb indicating the action, and "branches" is the noun serving as the object of the verb. Ludwig provides examples showing the phrase in both literal and potentially metaphorical contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pull branches" is a grammatically sound phrase commonly used to describe the action of grasping and moving or detaching tree limbs. According to Ludwig, it appears in various contexts, ranging from personal anecdotes to scientific explanations and instructional guides. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the register and intended audience, opting for more precise terms like "prune" or "remove" in formal settings. When used metaphorically, ensure clarity to avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives such as "detach branches" or "remove branches" can provide subtle shifts in meaning depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remove branches

Focuses on the action of getting rid of tree limbs, emphasizing disposal rather than manipulation.

detach branches

Highlights the separation aspect, suitable when emphasizing the disconnection of branches from a tree.

break off branches

Emphasizes forceful separation, suggesting a less controlled action.

pluck branches

Suggests a more delicate or selective removal, akin to picking fruit.

yank branches

Implies a sudden, forceful pulling action.

lower branches

Focuses on changing the position of the branches without necessarily removing them.

bend branches

Describes the action of curving the branches, not necessarily detaching them.

trim branches

Involves cutting or shortening branches for maintenance or aesthetic purposes.

prune branches

Specifically refers to removing selected parts of a plant, like branches, for better growth.

gather branches

Focuses on collecting branches that may already be detached.

FAQs

How can I use "pull branches" in a sentence?

You can use "pull branches" in sentences like, "Mr. Frohling used to "pull branches" from the tree to make Christmas decorations" or "The orangutan builds nests by "pulling branches" together."

What are some alternatives to "pull branches"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "remove branches", "detach branches", or "trim branches".

Is it appropriate to use "pull branches" in a formal context?

While "pull branches" is generally acceptable, in formal contexts, consider whether a more precise term like "prune branches" or "remove branches" might be more suitable to maintain clarity and professionalism.

Can "pull branches" have a metaphorical meaning?

Yes, "pull branches" can metaphorically refer to withdrawing support or resources, similar to cutting off a branch of a business or project. However, ensure the context makes this meaning clear to avoid confusion.