pull off a surprise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pull off a surprise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to successfully executing or achieving a surprise, often in the context of planning an event or an unexpected action. Example: "We managed to pull off a surprise party for her birthday, and she was completely taken aback."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

So if Labour could cobble together a coalition, it could yet pull off a surprise.

The Economist

As a byproduct of her dedication, she manages to pull off a surprise victory each season.

The New York Times - Sports

If Sony does pull off a surprise smash, it could be a game-changer.

The Guardian - Film

If the Americans pull off a surprise, people here will watch and, the league hopes, embrace M.L.S.

The New York Times - Magazine

"But with all the enthusiasm for a refreshing campaign, I think she can pull off a surprise upset".

The New York Times

Now she will have to soldier on through New Hampshire, seeking to pull off a surprise comeback victory there, as she did in 2008.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Nantes pulled off a surprise victory, beating Lille 1-0.

The Guardian - Sport

IN JANUARY, Stephen Harper pulled off a surprise election victory, ending a dozen years of Liberal rule.

The Economist

As they had in Chicago, the Nets pulled off a surprise, winning impressively, 100-92.

The New York Times - Sports

If Trump pulls off a surprise in Michigan, he will be in a strong position.

The Guardian

Levi Leipheimer's Astana pulled off a surprise performance by finishing third with 22.03.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to ensure the phrase aligns with the intended tone. It's suitable for describing events, achievements, or actions that deviate from the expected course.

Common error

Avoid using "pull off a surprise" when the outcome was easily achieved or required minimal effort. The phrase implies a significant challenge overcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pull off a surprise" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the successful execution of an unexpected or improbable event. As shown by Ludwig, it indicates achieving something that was not anticipated or considered likely.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pull off a surprise" is a common and grammatically correct idiomatic expression used to describe the successful execution of something unexpected or improbable. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, but is particularly prevalent in news and media. When writing, remember that using this phrase implies a noteworthy level of difficulty overcome to achieve the unexpected outcome. Consider alternatives like "achieve an upset" or "defy expectations" to fine-tune the specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defy expectations

Underscores the unexpected nature of the achievement, going against what was predicted.

score an unexpected victory

Specifically emphasizes winning against the odds.

achieve an upset

This alternative focuses on the unexpected nature of the victory or achievement.

spring a surprise

Emphasizes the sudden and unexpected nature of the surprise.

engineer a surprise

Highlights the skillful planning and execution involved in creating the unexpected outcome.

effect a turnaround

Highlights a surprising reversal of fortune or situation.

deliver a shock

Implies a stronger, more impactful surprise that causes significant reaction.

execute a masterstroke

Suggests a clever and decisive action that leads to a surprising outcome.

manage a feat

Focuses on the accomplishment of something difficult, with an element of surprise.

stage a coup

Implies a sudden and decisive action, often in a competitive context, that leads to a surprising shift in power or status.

FAQs

How can I use "pull off a surprise" in a sentence?

You can use "pull off a surprise" to describe successfully achieving something unexpected or difficult. For example, "The team managed to "pull off a surprise" victory despite being the underdogs".

What's a good alternative to "pull off a surprise"?

Alternatives include "achieve an upset", "engineer a surprise", or "defy expectations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "pull off a surprise" or "make a surprise happen"?

"Pull off a surprise" implies a successful execution of something difficult and unexpected, while "make a surprise happen" is more general. The former emphasizes the effort and unexpected nature of the achievement.

What does it mean to "pull off a surprise" in a political context?

In politics, "pull off a surprise" often refers to a candidate or party unexpectedly winning an election or achieving a significant political victory against the odds. It suggests that they "defied expectations" and achieved something remarkable.