haul - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
haul Word Meanings
- to pull or drag something with effort
- to transport goods
- to obtain something with great effort
haul Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
haul Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/hɔːl/
US
/hɔl/
haul Word Etymology
haul = to pull + Old French 'haler' (to drag) → Middle English 'halen' → English. Imagine a strong person pulling a heavy object like a boat ashore, showcasing the effort needed.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Haul is a versatile verb that centers on applying effort to move something heavy or distant. It can mean to pull or drag a load with force, as in hauling a boat ashore or hauling a cart up a ramp. It also covers transporting goods, often in a commercial or logistical sense, as when a company hauls cargo from ship to warehouse. A third nuance is informal, meaning to obtain something with great effort, like hauling a rare prize or a hard-earned victory. Unlike simpler verbs like pull or carry, haul implies exertion, distance, and sometimes technique or equipment.
Usage Reminders
- - Use haul with heavy or distant movement; not for simple carrying
- - Distinguish haul from pull and carry by emphasis on effort and distance
- - Common collocations: haul goods, haul a boat, haul yourself up
- - Figurative use: haul a prize, haul in profits
- - Be aware of phrasal variants: haul off, haul out
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing haul with carry for any movement of weight
- Assuming haul always implies long distance
- Using haul for light, easy tasks
- Mixing up haul with pull when no physical movement is involved
- Forgetting haul can be a noun (a haul of goods)
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: haul foregrounds effort and distance; it often implies moving something heavy and may be used in logistics or figuratively for hard-won gains.
Learning Tips
- Learn core collocations: haul goods, haul a boat, haul yourself up
- Practice distinguishing haul from pull and carry
- Note the figurative use: haul a prize, haul in profits
- Watch for phrasal variants like haul off
- Read logistics contexts to see haul in action
- Use a mix of sentences: physical movement and figurative outcomes
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'haul'?
A.Drive
B.Swim
C.Jump
D.Pull
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'haul' correctly?
A.She danced all night.
B.He hauls heavy boxes all day.
C.They sang beautifully.
D.I painted a picture.
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the synonym for 'haul':
A.Give up
B.Retrieve
C.Distribute
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
Choose the antonym for 'haul':
A.Push
B.Carry
C.Drop
D.Drag
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'haul'?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Cleaning a room
C.Moving furniture
D.Taking a shower
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App