to decide not to take part in something anymore, or to stop being involved in an activity, event, or agreement.
The company decided to pull out of the deal at the last minute.
A: Are you still going to be in the tennis tournament? B: No, I had to pull out because of an injury.
I was supposed to join the group project, but I had to pull out when my schedule got too busy.
Common mistake
✗They pulled out the project at the last minute.
✓They pulled out of the project at the last minute.
'Pull out OF' something — don't drop 'of'.
Tell it apart
They pulled out of the merger.
withdrew from it
They pushed ahead with the merger.
carried on with it
Use 'pull out' when someone or a group officially stops being part of something, like a project, competition, or plan.'Pull out' is more formal than 'drop out', and is often used for groups or organizations, not just individuals.
to move your car from the side of the road or another place onto the main road and start driving.
Always check your mirrors before you pull out onto a busy street.
A: Why did that car honk at you? B: I think I pulled out a bit too quickly.
When I first learned to drive, I was nervous about pulling out into traffic, especially during rush hour.
Common mistake
✗He pulled out to the main road.
✓He pulled out onto the main road.
'Pull out ONTO' a road — not 'to'.
Tell it apart
A van pulled out in front of me.
moved onto the road
A van pulled over to let me past.
stopped at the roadside
Use 'pull out' when you start driving onto a road, especially from a parking spot or side street.'Pull out' is the opposite of 'pull in' or 'pull over', which mean to stop at the side of the road.