What is the difference between pull and tug?

Answer 1

An easy way to tell the difference between a pull and a tug is to think of the differences between:

• a child who tugs on his mother's pant leg -- and pulling a wheelbarrow backwards while holding the handles
• when you tug on a shirt to pull it lower on your body -- and pulling on a loose string still attached to your shirt
• a "tug" on your heart when you feel tender toward someone -- and a "pull" on your heart when you feel almost driven to be loving and near someone you love

Answer 2

Pulling involves applying force in a specific direction to move an object, whereas tugging involves pulling with a quick or sudden movement. Tugging often implies a stronger or more forceful action compared to pulling.