pull the trigger

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pull the trigger" is correct and often used in written English.
It is typically used as a metaphor. For example, "He knew that it was time to make a decision, so he pulled the trigger."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I pull the trigger.

Independent

Pull the trigger, gone.

The Guardian

They didn't pull the trigger.

The New York Times - Sports

Time to pull the trigger!

The New York Times

Would Barluet pull the trigger?

The Guardian

"But I couldn't pull the trigger.

The New Yorker

But Eli will pull the trigger.

The New York Times

I could not pull the trigger.

The New York Times - Tech

"I cannot pull the trigger anymore.

The New York Times

You point and pull the trigger.

The New York Times

Then we pull the trigger on Keith".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pull the trigger" metaphorically, ensure the context is appropriate, as the phrase carries violent connotations that may be unsuitable for sensitive topics. Consider alternative idioms like "take the plunge" if a less aggressive tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "pull the trigger" literally when describing non-violent actions, as it creates a jarring and inappropriate image. For instance, saying "He pulled the trigger on the new marketing campaign" might be misconstrued. Instead, use a phrase like "He launched the new marketing campaign."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pull the trigger" functions primarily as an idiom, meaning to initiate a decisive action, especially after hesitation. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts ranging from business decisions to personal commitments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "pull the trigger" is frequently used to signify making a final decision or initiating a decisive action, as validated by Ludwig. Although Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, its violent imagery necessitates careful contextual consideration. Its neutral register permits usage across various domains, but sensitivity is crucial. Alternatives such as "take the plunge" or "make the call" offer safer options when avoiding potentially offensive connotations. As evidenced by examples from news outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian, the phrase appears extensively in journalistic contexts, often related to business, politics, and strategic decisions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take the plunge

Implies committing to something significant, often after hesitation; less violent imagery.

make the call

Refers specifically to making a decision, particularly an important one.

bite the bullet

Implies facing a difficult situation with courage; focuses on enduring rather than initiating.

seal the deal

Signifies finalizing an agreement or transaction.

commit to action

A more formal way of expressing taking action, often in a business or strategic context.

execute the plan

Emphasizes the implementation of a strategy or project.

set in motion

Suggests initiating a process or series of events.

give the go-ahead

Refers to granting permission or approval for something to proceed.

initiate the process

Formally indicates the start of a defined procedure.

push the button

Analogous to "pull the trigger" but with a less violent connotation, implying activation.

FAQs

How can I use "pull the trigger" in a sentence?

You can use "pull the trigger" to describe making a final decision or taking a decisive action, as in "After months of deliberation, the company finally decided to "pull the trigger" on the merger."

What does it mean to "pull the trigger" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "pull the trigger" means to commit to a course of action, often after a period of hesitation or planning. It implies a decisive step that sets things in motion. Similar expressions are "take the plunge" or "make the call".

Is it appropriate to use "pull the trigger" in all situations?

No, it's not always appropriate. Because of its violent origins, "pull the trigger" can be insensitive or alarming in certain contexts, especially when discussing sensitive or traumatic topics. Consider alternatives like "take action" or "implement the plan" in such cases.

What are some less aggressive alternatives to "pull the trigger"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "move forward", "initiate the process", or "execute the plan". These alternatives convey a similar sense of decisiveness without the violent imagery associated with "pull the trigger".