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pull the plug — to end or stop something abruptly; to withdraw support or funding

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: to end or stop something abruptly; to withdraw support or funding

Pronunciation (IPA): /pʊl ðə plʌɡ/

Example Sentences

  • After three failed seasons, the network decided to pull the plug on the reality show about dating robots.
  • The government will pull the plug on funding if the project doesn't show results.
  • My mom threatened to pull the plug on my gaming setup if I didn't improve my grades.

pull the plug

NOUN

[/pʊl ðə plʌɡ/]

to end or stop something abruptly; to withdraw support or funding

The producer decided to pull the plug on the failing TV show after poor ratings.
💡 Concept

The producer decided to pull the plug on the failing TV show after poor ratings.

Despite every tug and final hug, he had to pull the plug!
🎵 Rhyme

Despite every tug and final hug, he had to pull the plug!

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/pʊl ðə plʌɡ/
🇬🇧 UK/pʊl ðə plʌɡ/

🌳Etymology

Origin

This phrase originated in the early 20th century from the literal physical act of removing an electrical plug from a socket to stop a machine's operation. The expression evolved metaphorically to mean abruptly terminating or discontinuing any activity or project.

Breakdown

pull (to draw or extract forcefully) + the (definite article) + plug (electrical connector that completes a circuit).

🎵Rhyme

tug
hug
drug

🔗Collocations

pull the plug on
threaten to pull the plug
reluctantly pull the plug
finally pull the plug
pull the plug immediately

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“After three failed seasons, the network decided to pull the plug on the reality show about dating robots.”

“The government will pull the plug on funding if the project doesn't show results.”

😄 Fun example

“My mom threatened to pull the plug on my gaming setup if I didn't improve my grades.”

📚Related Words

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