they pulled out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they pulled out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone or something has withdrawn or removed themselves from a situation or location. Example: "After much deliberation, they pulled out of the agreement, leaving the project in jeopardy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They pulled out batteries.

The Washington Post

"They pulled out guns.

The Guardian - Opinion

"They pulled out," Mr. Simon said.

The New York Times

However, they pulled out before engaging.

Yale University

"They pulled out," he said.

The New York Times

They pulled out his teeth, too, just to be safe.

Independent

They pulled out candles, lit them, and offered him one.

The New Yorker

That is why they pulled out with the job undone.

The Economist

Are they corroded, or have they pulled out?

The Washington Post

So what if they pulled out their hair?

The New York Times - Arts

When they pulled out, Eavis, floundering, called their manager again.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they pulled out" to clearly convey a sense of physical or metaphorical withdrawal. Ensure the context provides sufficient information about what they withdrew from.

Common error

Avoid using "they pulled out" without making it clear who "they" refers to and what "they" are pulling out of. This can lead to ambiguity and confusion for the reader. Always provide context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they pulled out" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating an action of withdrawal or departure. As Ludwig shows, this can refer to physical removal, as in pulling something out, or a more abstract withdrawal from an agreement or commitment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they pulled out" is a versatile expression used to describe the act of withdrawing from a situation, agreement, or location. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, especially in News & Media. While alternatives like "they withdrew" may offer a more formal tone, "they pulled out" remains a widely accepted and understood way to communicate withdrawal. Remember to provide clear context to avoid ambiguity. Overall, it's a reliable and frequently used phrase in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they withdrew

Focuses on a more formal or official sense of departure or retraction.

they backed out

Indicates a retraction from a commitment or agreement.

they opted out

Signifies a choice to not participate or continue in something.

they retreated

Suggests a strategic withdrawal, often from a conflict or unfavorable position.

they disengaged

Highlights the act of separating or detaching from an activity or connection.

they exited

Implies a departure, often in a business or transactional context.

they bowed out

Suggests a graceful or voluntary withdrawal, often from a competition or project.

they abandoned

Suggests a complete and often permanent relinquishment.

they stepped down

Refers specifically to resigning or leaving a position of authority.

they relinquished

Emphasizes the formal act of giving up something, such as a position or right.

FAQs

What does "they pulled out" mean?

The phrase "they pulled out" generally means that a group or entity withdrew from a situation, agreement, competition, or location. The specific meaning depends on the context in which it's used.

How can I use "they pulled out" in a sentence?

You can use "they pulled out" to indicate withdrawal. For example: "After the negotiations failed, "they pulled out" of the deal." Or: "Due to the rising costs, "they pulled out" of the project."

What are some alternatives to "they pulled out"?

Alternatives to "they pulled out" include "they withdrew", "they retreated", "they exited", or "they backed out", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "they withdrew" or "they pulled out"?

Both "they withdrew" and "they pulled out" are correct, but "they withdrew" is generally considered more formal. The choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality. In informal settings, "they pulled out" is perfectly acceptable. "They withdrew" often implies a more official or considered decision.