pull up stakes, to
Definition: To leave one’s residence, job, or country; to move on. This Americanism dates at least from the nineteenth century and may be older. It appeared in print in 1830 in Massachusetts Spy: “Our emigrants pulled up stakes and returned post haste to . . . Springfield.” The stakes presumably were posts marking property boundaries.
Related and Similar Terms
- Hit the road: To leave or start a journey.
- Uproot: To remove from one’s residence or accustomed environment.
- Change turf: Similar to changing horses; it means shifting one’s domain.
- Changing domicile: Moving from one residence to another.
Common Phrases & Proverbs
- Cut ties: To end associations.
- Depart for greener pastures: To look for better circumstances.
- Bounce: To leave quickly or casually.
- Pack up and go: To gather one’s belongings and leave.
Humor-Filled Quote
“Pulling up stakes isn’t just about moving, it’s about making sure you don’t take any root vegetables with you. Leave the carrots behind, folks!” - Anonymous Grinsworthy
Suggested Reads, Movies, and More
- Books: The Art of Travel by Alain de Botton, Wild by Cheryl Strayed
- Movies: Eat Pray Love (2010), The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
- Songs: “Away We Go” by Joe Satriani, “On The Road Again” by Willie Nelson
- Poetry: “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
As you pull up your stakes and set forth, embrace the unknown with courage and enthusiasm. The journey ahead may be challenging, but every new ground discovered is a testament to your resilient spirit. 🌟
Happy venturing,
Annabelle Quip
### Which of these expressions means to leave abruptly?
- [ ] Sit tight
- [ ] Kick up your feet
- [x] Hit the road
- [ ] Blend in
> **Explanation:** "Hit the road" means to leave or start a journey, which is akin to pulling up stakes.
### Which idiom suggests moving for better opportunities?
- [ ] Sink in water
- [ ] Take a hike
- [ ] Break the ice
- [x] Depart for greener pastures
> **Explanation:** "Depart for greener pastures" refers to looking for better circumstances, much like pulling up stakes and leaving for better opportunities.
### True or False: 'Cut ties' is a related term to 'pull up stakes'
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Correct! "Cut ties" means to end associations, which relates to the concept of pulling up stakes and moving on.
### Which one of these is an idiom about leaving a place where you live?
- [ ] Raining cats and dogs
- [x] Pull up stakes
- [ ] Cry wolf
- [ ] Spill the beans
> **Explanation:** "Pull up stakes" is the idiom about leaving one’s residence, job, or country; the others have completely different meanings.
### Pick the related phrase:
- [x] Uproot
- [ ] Nestle in
- [ ] Dig your heels in
- [ ] Hold your ground
> **Explanation:** "Uproot" means to remove from one’s residence or accustomed environment, relating closely to "pull up stakes."
### Choose the correct meaning for 'pull up stakes':
- [x] To leave one’s residence or job
- [ ] To plant a garden
- [ ] To babysit overnight
- [ ] To invest in stocks
> **Explanation:** "To leave one’s residence or job" is the correct meaning of the idiom "pull up stakes."
