pull your weight

USAGE SUMMARY

'pull your weight' is an acceptable phrase in written English.
This phrase can be used to express the idea that one should contribute to a common effort. For example: "I understand you may be struggling, but everyone needs to pull their weight to get this project finished on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"You know you have to go out there and pull your weight," Hughes said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Don't mention this at the office," that same nagging voice warns, "you'll look like you can't pull your weight".

The New York Times

"They're just happy that you can pull your weight," said Eva Paz, 36, a second-year apprentice in the carpenters' union, who has a "No Cry Baby" sticker on her hard hat.

The New York Times

'Finally, as a gesture of goodwill to the director, you kind of have to pull your weight.' But there is a point beyond which she simply will not go.

The Guardian - Film

If you're an immigrant who wants to come and work in America, you should be able to get someone to write an insurance contract that would make payments to the government in the event that you lose your job, or for any other reason you can't or won't pull your weight.

Forbes

You had to pull your weight.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

It's called a 'made man.' You pulled your weight.

The New York Times - Magazine

"You're constantly feeling like a burden, constantly feeling you're not pulling your weight.

The Guardian - Business

You don't want people saying you're not pulling your weight".

The New York Times

If he thinks you aren't pulling your weight he will tell you, and if you are doing a good job he will tell you.

The Guardian - Sport

This is a radical notion known as pulling your weight, contributing in a positive way and working together as a team.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pull your weight", ensure the context clearly indicates a shared responsibility or group effort where individual contributions are necessary for overall success. This idiom is most effective when there's an expectation of equal or fair participation.

Common error

Avoid using "pull your weight" in situations where individuals have clearly defined, independent tasks. This idiom implies a collective undertaking, not merely individual duties assigned separately.

How to use

Learn how to use "pull your weight" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "pull your weight" functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a larger clause or sentence to express an expectation or requirement of contributing adequately to a shared task. Ludwig AI confirms that it is an accepted phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

The Guardian

7%

Forbes

7%

The New York Times

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pull your weight" is a common idiomatic phrase that means to contribute fairly to a shared task or responsibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and acceptability in written English. It's frequently used in news and media, as well as in general discussions and instructional contexts like WikiHow, and its register is generally neutral, suitable for a variety of situations. When using the phrase, consider the shared responsibility aspect and ensure the context aligns with collaborative efforts. While widely understood, more formal alternatives exist for professional settings. Understanding these nuances helps writers use "pull your weight" effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do your part

Emphasizes fulfilling one's responsibility in a collective endeavor, highlighting individual accountability.

contribute one's share

Focuses on contributing an equitable portion to a joint effort, highlighting fairness and proportionality.

carry your load

Stresses the burden of responsibility and the need to manage one's assigned tasks, suggesting active management of responsibilities.

shoulder your responsibilities

Highlights bearing the weight of duties and obligations, emphasizing a mature and responsible approach.

be a team player

Focuses on collaboration and contributing to the overall success of a group, emphasizing cooperation and support.

hold up your end

Emphasizes fulfilling one's obligations in a partnership or agreement, highlighting reliability and commitment.

step up to the plate

Emphasizes taking action and assuming responsibility when needed, highlighting initiative and responsiveness.

earn your keep

Focuses on justifying one's place or resources through diligent work, highlighting the value of one's contributions.

chip in

Highlights making a contribution to a common pot, emphasizing collaboration and shared resources.

do your bit

Focuses on contributing a small part to a larger effort, emphasizing participation and collective contribution.

FAQs

How can I use "pull your weight" in a sentence?

You can use "pull your weight" in sentences like, "Everyone on the team needs to "do their part" and "pull your weight" if we want to win the championship" or "If you want to continue living here, you need to "contribute one's share" and "pull your weight" around the house".

What are some alternatives to "pull your weight"?

Some alternatives to "pull your weight" include phrases like ""contribute one's share"", "do your part", or "carry your load". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "pull your weight" in formal writing?

While "pull your weight" is widely understood, it's generally considered informal. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "shoulder your responsibilities" or ""contribute one's share"" to maintain a more professional tone.

What does it mean to "pull your weight"?

To "pull your weight" means to contribute fairly to a shared task or responsibility. It implies that everyone involved should contribute their fair share of effort to ensure the success of the undertaking.