Search
to tug
01
to pull with a quick, forceful movement
Transitive: to tug at sth | to tug on sth
Example
He tugged at the stuck suitcase handle, hoping it would finally open.
The toddler tugged on her mother's sleeve, trying to get her attention.
02
to pull or strive forcefully in a contest or struggle
Transitive: to tug at sth | to tug against sth
Example
During the tug of war competition, the two teams tugged fiercely at the rope, each vying for victory.
The horse tugged against the reins, eager to move faster along the trail.
03
to cause something to move by applying force with a pulling action
Transitive: to tug sth to a direction
Example
She tugged the reluctant horse forward, urging it to cross the stream.
In a team effort, they tugged the heavy sled across the snowy field.
04
to pull or carry something with effort
Transitive: to tug sth somewhere | to tug sth to a direction
Example
The porter tugged the heavy luggage up the staircase, careful not to lose balance.
Farmers tugged sacks of grain across the field.
05
to pull or tow a ship using the power and assistance of a tugboat
Transitive: to tug a ship somewhere
Example
The harbor pilot directed the tugboat to tug the massive container ship into the port.
The icebreaker tug was specifically designed to tug ships through icy waters, ensuring safe passage.
06
to work or strain vigorously and with effort
Intransitive: to tug at sth
Example
In the studio, the artist tugged at the pottery wheel, molding clay into intricate forms.
The sculptor tugged at the block of marble, shaping it into a masterpiece with each chisel strike.
