Translation guide
The English phrasal verb "pull off" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: succeeding at something difficult, removing something by pulling, and driving a vehicle to the side of the road.
To manage to do something that seemed unlikely or challenging, often with skill or luck.
pull off a surprise party · pull off a difficult stunt · pull off a major deal
Means to accomplish or carry something through to the end, often despite difficulties. A natural fit for "pull off" when emphasizing completion of a challenging task.
He pulled off the difficult project.
Similar to やり遂げる but slightly more formal or literary. Often used for significant achievements.
She pulled off a feat that was thought impossible.
A casual, versatile phrase meaning "to do well" or "to manage successfully." Works for pulling off a plan or performance.
He pulled off the presentation.
Literally "make it a success." Direct and clear, suitable for both spoken and written contexts.
They pulled off the event.
A colloquial, slightly dramatic way to say "pull off" or "manage to do," often implying boldness or audacity.
He pulled it off all by himself.
To take something off or away by pulling it, such as clothing, a cover, or a sticker.
pull off a bandage · pull off your boots · pull off the tape
The standard verb for taking off clothes or shoes. Use this for pulling off garments.
He pulled off his sweater.
Means to peel or tear off something attached, like a sticker, tape, or bandage. Emphasizes the pulling action.
A general verb for removing or taking off. Can be used for pulling off items like a cap or a ring, but less specific than 脱ぐ or 引き剥がす.
To peel off or strip off. Similar to 引き剥がす but without the pulling nuance. Common for stickers or labels.
To steer a vehicle to the edge of the road and stop, or to leave the main road.
pull off the highway · pull off at the next rest stop · pull off to check the map
Literally "pull over to the shoulder." The most natural way to say "pull off the road" when stopping on the shoulder.
He pulled off to the shoulder.
Means "to park/pull over to the side." More general than 路肩に寄せる; can be used for pulling off into a parking area or side street.
Simply "stop the car." Lacks the nuance of pulling off to the side, but can be used when the context is clear.
The English "pull off" is a phrasal verb with meanings that don't correspond to a single Japanese verb. Always choose the Japanese expression based on the intended meaning, not the words "pull" and "off."
She pulled off the poster from the wall.
He pulled off his hat.
ラベルを剥がしてください。
Please pull off the label.
Let's pull off at the next exit.
He pulled off at the edge of the road.