Pull up stakes

usgb
verb

To leave a place or situation, often for another location or situation.

After living in the city for many years, they decided to pull up stakes and move to the countryside.
Visual representation of "pull up stakes" - To leave a place or situation, often for another location or situation

Often appears as...

  • decide to pull up stakes
  • pull up stakes and leave

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pull up stakes"
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American Origin

This phrase has roots in American history, referring to lifting tent stakes when moving camp.

Illustration for American Origin
Pioneers often had to pull up stakes to find new homes.
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Indicates Change

'Pull up stakes' suggests a significant change, not just a casual or temporary move.

Illustration for Indicates Change
He's not just switching apartments; he's pulling up stakes to another state.
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Usually Voluntary

The phrase often implies a choice to leave rather than being forced out.

Illustration for Usually Voluntary
After careful consideration, she pulled up stakes and started anew abroad.
Visual representation of the word "Pull up stakes"

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