pulled it off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'pulled it off' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to an accomplishment, usually when the accomplishment is difficult or improbable. For example, "Everyone said it was impossible, but she managed to pull it off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We pulled it off".

The New York Times

Kentucky almost pulled it off".

The New Yorker

And Kyle pulled it off".

The New York Times

"We pulled it off and they stayed".

The New York Times

Watson almost pulled it off at 59.

The New York Times

"Somehow, I pulled it off," Miller said.

The New York Times - Sports

"You pulled it off again".

The New Yorker

Yet he pulled it off".

The New York Times - Arts

"You've really pulled it off!" another said.

The New York Times

But they pulled it off".

Science Magazine

And we pulled it off".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pulled it off" when you want to emphasize that a successful outcome was achieved despite significant challenges or low expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "pulled it off" when describing routine or easily achieved tasks. This phrase implies a degree of difficulty or surprise in the success.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "pulled it off" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating the successful completion of an action or task. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage, exemplified by various entries across numerous sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "pulled it off" is a commonly used expression to indicate successful completion of a task, particularly when it involves overcoming challenges or defying expectations. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various sources, especially in News & Media. While versatile, it's best to reserve this phrase for situations where the success wasn't guaranteed or easily achieved. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "succeeded" or "accomplished" for a more professional tone. Remember to use "pulled it off" when emphasizing the difficulty overcome to achieve a positive outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

succeeded

Implies a general achievement of a goal, lacking the nuance of overcoming difficulty.

managed to achieve

Highlights the effort involved in reaching a goal, similar to overcoming a challenge.

carried it out successfully

Emphasizes the effective execution of a plan or task.

accomplished

Focuses on the completion of a task, without necessarily implying difficulty.

came through

Indicates success after a period of uncertainty or difficulty.

brought it home

An idiomatic expression suggesting successful completion, often in competitive contexts.

nailed it

Informal term suggesting a perfect execution or successful outcome.

executed flawlessly

Highlights a perfect execution, emphasizing precision and skill.

realized the objective

Formal phrasing, emphasizing the achievement of a specific aim.

triumphed

Suggests a significant victory or overcoming substantial opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "pulled it off" in a sentence?

Use "pulled it off" to indicate that someone has succeeded in doing something difficult. For example, "Despite the challenges, the team "pulled it off" and delivered the project on time".

What can I say instead of "pulled it off"?

You can use alternatives like "succeeded", "managed to achieve", or "accomplished" depending on the context.

Is it formal to use the phrase "pulled it off"?

The phrase "pulled it off" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, it's better to use alternatives such as "succeeded" or "achieved".

What does it mean when someone says they "pulled it off"?

When someone says they ""pulled it off"", it means they successfully completed something, often implying that the task was challenging or that there was doubt about their ability to succeed.