How to Pronounce "pull up short"
expression
ˈpʊɫ/ /ˈəp/ /ˈʃɔɹt
PUUL-up-SHORT
pˈʊl/ /ˈʌp/ /ʃˈɔːt
PUL-UP-SHAWT
Definition
To stop suddenly or unexpectedly, often when moving. It can be used for vehicles or people literally stopping, or when someone abruptly ends an action or stops speaking.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈpʊɫ/ /ˈəp/ /ˈʃɔɹt
British English
pˈʊl/ /ˈʌp/ /ʃˈɔːt
Simplified Pronunciation
US
PUUL-up-SHORT
UK
PUL-UP-SHAWT
Listen in Context
The car pulled up short when a cat ran across the road.
He pulled up short at the door, surprised to find it locked.
She pulled up short in the middle of her sentence.
I pulled up short when I realized I was going the wrong way.