pull chain
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A pull chain is a simple mechanical device consisting of a chain, typically with a handle or grip at one end. It is designed so that a user pulls on it to activate or operate a mechanism. The most common example is the chain used to flush a traditional toilet.
Examples of Usage
- To flush the old toilet, you need to pull the chain.
- The only light in the room was controlled by a pull chain hanging from the ceiling fixture.
- He reached up and gave the pull chain a gentle tug to turn on the fan.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically to describe initiating a simple, direct action, much like the literal mechanism.
- Announcing the layoffs was like pulling the chain on a series of unfortunate events.
Variants and Related Words
- Chain pull (noun): An alternative phrasing with the same meaning.
- The lamp is fitted with a convenient chain pull.
- Pull-cord (noun): A similar device using a cord or string instead of a chain.
- The lawnmower engine is started with a pull-cord.
Synonyms
- Flush chain (noun): Specifically for a toilet.
- Actuator (noun): A more general technical term for a component that initiates mechanical action.
- Toggle switch (noun): A different type of simple on/off switch, often compared in function.
Related Phrases
- To pull the chain: This verb phrase describes the action of using the device.
- Don't forget to pull the chain after using the restroom.
- Chain-pull (adjective): Used to describe a device operated in this way.
- It was a vintage chain-pull toilet.
Related Idioms
- Pull the chain on [something]: An idiomatic expression meaning to bring something to an end or to stop it, derived from the act of flushing something away.
- After three failed prototypes, the company decided to pull the chain on the project.
Noun
- a chain (usually with a handle at the end) that is pulled in order to operate some mechanism (e.g. to flush a toilet)