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Prise out

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LampPro Tip 1/3
Physical EffortPlay
'Prise out' often means physically removing something stuck, usually with tools or careful effort. SlideShe had to prise out the broken key from the lock with pliers.
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Metaphoric UsePlay
It can also be used metaphorically to describe a difficult task not involving physical objects. SlideThe prosecutor tried to prise out a confession from the suspect.
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Not LiteralPlay
Sometimes 'prise out' is used when nothing physical is removed, such as 'prising out' a smile. SlideIt took some funny jokes to prise out a laugh from the solemn crowd.