pull up short

• S'arrêter brusquement dans un mouvement ou cesser ce que l'on fait, souvent par surprise ou à cause d'un obstacle inattendu.

To suddenly stop moving or stop what one is doing, often in surprise or because of an unexpected obstacle.

1. Stop abruptlyB2informal

   To suddenly stop moving or stop someone or something from moving.

   s'arrêter net

   • The driver pulled up short when a child ran into the street.
   • She pulled up short at the edge of the cliff.
   • He pulled the horse up short just before the fence.

2. Interrupt or halt an actionB2informal

   To suddenly stop an activity or process.

   s'arrêter net

   • The manager pulled up short when he saw the mistake in the report.
   • She pulled up short in the middle of her speech.
   • The project was pulled up short due to lack of funding.