Pull vs. Drag

'Pull' and 'drag' signify similar actions, but they differ in the level of difficulty and friction. This lesson will tell you about their differences.

What is the difference between 'pull' and 'drag'?

To 'pull' something means to use force to move it in a particular direction. To 'drag' something also means to move it in a particular direction, but it implies a level of difficulty and effort that is not specified by 'pull'. This lesson will discuss the differences between these two verbs in more detail.

Level of Difficulty

'Pull' is a more general term that refers to the action of moving something by applying force in a direction towards oneself or in a specific direction. On the other hand, 'drag' is more specific and refers to the act of moving an object toward a specific direction, often with difficulty and effort, e.g. because the object is heavy.

She pulled the drawer open to retrieve her keys.

The truck driver had to drag the cargo up the ramp.

Contact with Surface

'Pull' does not necessarily require the object to be in contact with a surface. It can involve pulling an object through the air or in a free space. In contrast, 'drag' specifically implies that the object is in contact with the ground or another surface and is being moved along that surface. Furthermore, if an object can be moved on wheels or a person is moved on their legs, 'pull' is the appropriate verb to use, but if the object does not have wheels or the person is not standing on their feet and their weight is in friction with a surface, 'drag' must be used as the verb.

They pulled the rope to lift the flag.

As mentioned, 'pulling' can be done in the air and does not imply contact with a surface.

He dragged the chair across the room.

Here, 'across the room' refers to the ground surface of the room.

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