pull the plug
Meaning
To stop something (a project, service, plan, or life support), ending it completely.
Origin
From literally disconnecting a device by pulling out its electrical plug, making it stop running. Extended metaphorically to ending projects or support; also used of removing life support in medical contexts.
Notes
Often means decisively cancelling/ending something. Common in business/tech. In medical contexts it can mean removing life support and is emotionally and ethically loaded.
Examples
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After months of delays, the company decided to pull the plug on the project.
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Doctors told the family it was time to pull the plug after there was no brain activity.
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If this marketing campaign doesn’t show results by Friday, we may have to pull the plug.
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The network pulled the plug on the series after just two episodes.
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We should pull the plug now before we waste any more money on this idea.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: pull the plug (on + noun). Tenses inflect (pulled the plug). Common patterns: “pull the plug on the project/service” and “pull the plug” (no object) when context is clear.
Synonyms
- cancel
- scrap
- shut down
- terminate
- call it off
- axe
Antonyms
- keep it going
- carry on
- keep it alive
- press on