dead pull
Definition
Noun: A "dead pull" refers to a futile or useless effort, especially when attempting to lift something that is too heavy to be moved. It describes a situation where maximum strength is applied but no progress is made, resulting in wasted exertion.
Usage Examples
- (A useless attempt to lift an immovable object.)
- (A futile physical struggle.)
Advanced Usage
- "to make a dead pull at something": to exert oneself in a vain attempt.
- He made a dead pull at the stuck drawer, but it remained jammed. (He tried hard but failed to open it.)
- "a dead pull of the rope": a specific instance of pulling without success.
- Each dead pull of the rope only tightened the knot further. (Every pull was ineffective.)
Variants and Related Words
- Dead-lift (n): a weightlifting exercise where the weight is lifted from the ground without momentum. (Note: This is distinct from "dead pull," as dead-lift is a controlled, successful lift, not a futile effort.)
Synonyms
- Futile effort: an attempt that is useless or doomed to fail.
- Lost labor: work that produces no result.
- Vain struggle: a fight or exertion that achieves nothing.
Related Idioms
- "Pulling against the tide": struggling against an unstoppable force, similar to the futility of a dead pull.
- Arguing with him is like pulling against the tide; you'll never change his mind. (A hopeless endeavor.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Pull against: to exert force in opposition to something, often unsuccessfully.
- He pulled against the heavy door, but it wouldn't open. (He tried to move it but failed.)