Pronunciation: [pˈʊl ˌʌp ʃˈɔːt] (IPA) 
The phrase "pull up short" means to suddenly stop or halt something. The /p/ and /l/ sounds in "pull" are written as expected, but the /ʌ/ vowel sound is spelled with the letter "u." The word "up" is written with the letter "u" but pronounced with a schwa /ə/ sound. The final part of the phrase, "short," is written as expected with the letters "sh," "o," "r," and "t." In IPA, this phrase is transcribed as /pʊl ʌp ʃɔrt/.
Pull up short is an idiomatic expression that refers to suddenly coming to a stop or ceasing an action or movement abruptly. This phrase is typically used when someone or something unexpectedly halts or discontinues an activity or progression. The origin of this expression can be traced to horseracing, where it was used to describe a horse abruptly stopping before crossing the finish line.
The term pull up short can be applied to various contexts, such as physical movement, decision-making, or even verbal communication. For example, if a person is running and suddenly stops before reaching their intended destination, they can be said to have pulled up short. Similarly, in a conversation, if a person is interrupted and ceases their speech abruptly, they have pulled up short.
The phrase can also connote an emotional or mental halt. If someone is in the middle of expressing their thoughts or emotions and suddenly stops abruptly, they have pulled up short in their verbal expression.
Overall, pull up short signifies a sudden and unexpected interruption or cessation of an action or movement, regardless of whether it is physical, verbal, or emotional. It encapsulates the idea of abruptly coming to a stop in various situations, often catching others off guard.
