pull out all the stops
To hold back or reserve nothing.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“We pulled out all the stops to finish the project on time.”
“You should pull out all the stops for your final exam.”
“The hosts pulled out all the stops for the wedding, hiring a live band and serving a five-course dinner.”
“The hospital pulled out all the stops to ensure every patient received expert care during the sudden winter storm.”
“Determined to secure the contract, the firm pulled out all the stops, presenting a flawless proposal that surpassed every expectation set by the board.”
An allusion to the mechanical handles of a pipe organ, which the organist pulls out to activate specific sets of pipes. Each stop corresponds to a particular sound or rank of pipes; when pushed in, the corresponding sound is silenced.
The idiom describes the state of the instrument when every stop is extended. By pulling out all the stops, the organist allows air to flow through all ranks simultaneously, producing the maximum possible volume and variety of sound the machine can manage.
- 01
gravity's pull
Stress or pressure of a situation acting upon a person.
- 02
pull a face
To make an abnormal facial expression, either intentionally or because of an emotion.
- 03
pull a fast one
To carry out a trick or act of deception; to behave contrary to expectations.
- 04
pull a lever
To vote.
- 05
pull a rabbit out of a hat
To do something surprising and beneficial that is unexpected.
- 06
pull ahead
To move into a winning position (e.g. in a race or competition).
- 07
pull an all-nighter
To stay awake throughout the night, usually when working or studying.
- 08
pull away
To move ahead.
Last updated August 10, 2026