pull apart
The phrase 'pull apart' can be used both literally and figuratively, describing actions from physical separation to critical analysis.
Definition
B1General
(common)To separate something into smaller parts by applying force.
Example
- She pulled the bread apart to share with her friend.
- The mechanic pulled the engine apart to fix it.
B2Conflict
(common)To physically separate two or more entities that are fighting or entangled.
Example
- They had to pull the dogs apart before they hurt each other.
- The teacher pulled the students apart to stop the fight.
C1Analysis
(figurative)To critically analyze or dissect something to understand it better.
Example
- The critic pulled apart the novel, pointing out its flaws.
- In the debate, she pulled apart his argument to reveal its weaknesses.
C1Relationships
(figurative)To cause a relationship or group to break down or become divided.
Example
- The constant arguments eventually pulled their friendship apart.
- The scandal pulled the team apart.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "pull apart":
pull awaycome apartpull outtake aparttear awaytear apartpull backpull timepush awaypeel awaypick aparttear offpull inpull offpull throughrip outsplit uppull stringspull downdraw awayfall apartpeel offpush alongtear alongtear atbreak awaypull upblow apartrip intopiece outpush outpull overbreak opentease outyank offmove awaypull a leverbreak uppart waysrip up