There are several synonyms for the phrase "were pulled." Depending on the context, other phrases you can use instead of "were pulled" include "were extracted," "were removed," "were dragged," "were towed," "were yanked," "were plucked," and "were taken out." When writing, it is always advisable to vary your word choice to avoid monotony and enhance readability. Utilizing synonyms can help you describe a situation vividly and create a more engaging image in the mind of the reader. Experiment with different synonyms for "were pulled," but be sure to choose words that accurately convey the meaning of your sentence.