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pull up on

B2 neutral inseparable transitive

To challenge, correct, or reprimand someone specifically about a particular error or behaviour.

In plain English

To tell someone they made a mistake about something specific.

What does "pull up on" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

To challenge or correct someone about a specific error, statement, or piece of behaviour.

"The teacher pulled the student up on her inconsistent use of verb tenses."

inseparable
Usage tip

Predominantly British English. The 'on' specifies the subject of the correction, e.g. 'pulled him up on his grammar'. Implies the speaker has some authority or confidence to challenge the other person.

Words that pair with "pull up on"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

mistake error grammar behaviour figures comment statement

How to conjugate "pull up on"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
pull up on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pulls up on
he/she/it
Past simple
pulled up on
yesterday
Past participle
pulled up on
have + pp
-ing form
pulling up on
continuous

Hear "pull up on" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "pull up on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

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