tug at
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“The Unlikely Tale of Chase and Finnegan” strikes the right balance of sincerity in the hands of Jasmine Warga, though there’s still plenty of material to tug at the heartstrings.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026
Richter’s spare composition is meant to tug at the heartstrings, and it does its job just as well here, especially for unsuspecting viewers.
From Salon • Nov. 30, 2025
Meanwhile, Lidl - like John Lewis - has gone for a classic tale designed to tug at the heartstrings.
From BBC • Nov. 13, 2024
In this case I think it’s the mark of recognition, of feeling a tug at your subconscious.
From New York Times • May 2, 2024
And the next day, and the day after that, Ess scrambled down from the bed each morning and immediately began to tug at the blankets, squealing when they toppled over onto her head.
From "Orphan Island" by Laurel Snyder
![]()