pull the plug
The phrase "pull the plug" originates from the act of disconnecting a power source, and it is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.
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Definition
B2General
(informal)To stop or discontinue an activity, project, or process by withdrawing support or resources.
Example
- The company decided to pull the plug on the new product line due to low sales.
- After months of delays, they finally pulled the plug on the project.
B2Medical
(informal)To disconnect life-supporting equipment from a patient, ending their life.
Example
- The family made the difficult decision to pull the plug after the doctors said there was no hope for recovery.
B1Technology
(informal)To disconnect or shut off a device or system by removing its power source.
Example
- You need to pull the plug on the computer before you move it.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "pull the plug":
pulling the plugpull outplug uppull the triggerplug inplug intopull awaypull cordswitch offpull a leverplugged inpull up stumpsturn offsystem pullpull incall it quitswall plugplugged uppull offrip outpull time