pulled the door open

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pulled the door open" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe the action of physically pulling a door open. Example: Sarah pulled the door open and stepped outside into the cool breeze.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

She took the key from the nail, unlocked the deadbolt, and pulled the door open.

The New Yorker

A little girl pulled the door open a crack, peering shyly up at Kirsten.

The New Yorker

Karen pulled the door open to escape and found Puldron, alive, standing by the mail table.

The New Yorker

He pulled the door open a few inches, and then it stopped, jammed against an empty cardboard box and a wad of hanging coats.

The New Yorker

She pulled the door open and there was a foreclosure sign on it, "huge, practically as big as the door, with that duct tape," she said.

The New York Times - Science

When the lift landed on the ground floor, he had pulled the door open, trying not to let his breathlessness show, his eyes sparkling with satisfaction.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"He pulls the door open.

The New York Times

"Really," he says, and pulls the door open wide, as open as it can be.

The New Yorker

The nifty tailgate pops the glass up as you pull the door open.

The New York Times

But whatever happens, the mother must not succumb to the temptation to pull the door open and look at him.

The Guardian - Film

Then came the big moment: my daughter would stride to the driver's side of the car, pull the door open, slide in, and drive away.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's action, use "pulled the door open" to create a vivid image of their movement and intent.

Common error

While "pulled the door open" is clear, avoid repetitive use. Vary your descriptions with alternatives like "slid it open" or "pushed it ajar" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pulled the door open" functions as a verb phrase describing a physical action. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It specifies the method of opening a door, using the verb "pulled" to indicate the direction of force.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pulled the door open" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig, describing the action of opening a door by pulling it. It is most commonly found in News & Media contexts. While alternatives exist, such as "opened the door by pulling" or "drew the door open", the choice depends on the desired emphasis. When writing, it's best to avoid overuse and consider varying descriptions for stylistic purposes. Ensure that if the door opens away from you, then the verb to use is pushed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opened the door by pulling

This alternative maintains the core meaning but emphasizes the action of opening the door through pulling.

drew the door open

Uses 'drew' as a synonym for 'pulled', slightly more formal.

yanked the door open

This suggests a more forceful and sudden opening of the door.

slid the door open

Implies the door opens by sliding rather than swinging.

retracted the door

Suitable if the door recedes into a wall or structure.

unlatched the door and pulled it open

Specifies unlatching as a preliminary action, adding detail.

got the door open

Focuses on the result of opening the door, less about the action.

gave the door a pull to open it

Emphasizes the effort involved in pulling the door.

used force to open the door

Highlights the exertion of force, without specifying the manner.

manipulated the door to the open position

A more technical or descriptive way of saying the same thing.

FAQs

How can I use "pulled the door open" in a sentence?

You can use "pulled the door open" to describe the act of opening a door by pulling it, like: "She pulled the door open and stepped inside."

What are some alternatives to "pulled the door open"?

Consider alternatives such as "opened the door by pulling", "drew the door open", or "yanked the door open" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "pushed the door open" instead of "pulled the door open"?

While "pushed the door open" is a valid phrase, it describes a different action. Use "pulled" when the door opens towards you and "pushed" when it opens away from you.

What is the difference between "pulled the door open" and "opened the door"?

"Pulled the door open" specifies the manner of opening, while "opened the door" is a more general statement that doesn't indicate how the door was opened.