pulls the plug

Ends it suddenly

To pull the plug is to end something abruptly, especially by withdrawing support or resources.

The image comes from disconnecting an electrical device or, more gravely, removing life support: The studio pulled the plug on the series after two seasons.

Someone may pull the plug on a failing business, a stalled project, or a relationship that isn't working.

The phrase emphasizes decisive termination rather than gradual winding down.

Related

abort · disconnect · closure · finality · resuscitation · living will · cease · letting go · kill switch · terminate · hospice · euthanasia · shut down · deactivation · patient autonomy · ventilator · do not resuscitate · suspend

Opposites
continuation vs termination

pulls the plugkeeps alive

keeps going · carries on · sustains · keeps the lights on · breathes life into

initiation vs cessation

pulls the pluggreen-lights

Grants permission to proceed

greenlights · launches · kicks off · starts up · breathes life into

support vs withdrawal

pulls the plugdoubles down

Increases commitment despite risk

props up · shores up · resuscitates · revives · backs

Family

pull, pulls, pulled, pulling, puller, plug, plugs, plugged, plugging

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG