9 Phrasal Verbs with “Draw”
Hello, dear English learners! Have you ever heard someone say “the days are drawing in” or “she drew up a contract” and wondered what it really means? The verb draw has many fascinating phrasal forms that appear in everyday English, from casual conversations to formal business contexts. Let’s look at 9 phrasal verbs with “draw”, with meanings and natural example sentences to help you use them confidently.
Draw in
Meaning: The days become shorter as autumn or winter approaches.
- It’s getting colder, and the days are really drawing in.
- Once the evenings draw in, I prefer to stay at home and read.
Note: “Draw in” can also mean when a vehicle slows down and stops somewhere:
- The train drew in at platform four.
Draw on / Draw upon something
Meaning: To use something you have available — such as experience, knowledge, or resources.
- After spending all my money on holiday, I had to draw on my savings.
- In her presentation, she drew upon years of research.
Draw out (something)
Meaning: To make something last longer than usual; to lengthen a period of time.
- The meeting was drawn out because everyone had too much to say.
- Summer seemed to draw out endlessly when we were children.
Draw out (someone)
Meaning: To encourage someone to talk or express their feelings.
- Paul managed to draw Julie out and get her talking about her new job.
- The teacher tried to draw out the shy students during the discussion.
Draw someone into something
Meaning: To involve someone in a situation, especially one that’s difficult or unpleasant.
- Please don’t draw me into your argument — it’s between you two!
- She was accidentally drawn into the office politics.
Draw something down
Meaning: To pull something down, such as blinds or curtains.
- Ronnie locked the door and drew the blinds down.
- It was too sunny, so she drew down the curtains.
Note: In business English, “draw down” can also mean to reduce or use funds from an account or loan.
Draw something off
Meaning: To remove a small amount of liquid from a larger supply.
- I had to draw some coffee off my cup because it was overflowing.
- The mechanic drew off some oil to check its quality.
Draw up (something)
Meaning: To prepare a document, list, or plan in a formal way.
- The company lawyer drew up a new contract.
- We’re drawing up a list of candidates for the position.
Note: “Draw up” can also mean to stop a vehicle:
- The taxi drew up outside the hotel.
Draw yourself up
Meaning: To stand up straight, often to appear confident, proud, or important.
- She drew herself up and looked the interviewer straight in the eye.
- I know you’re tired, but draw yourself up for the photo, please!
The verb draw is surprisingly versatile. Phrasal verbs, such as drawing up a plan and drawing someone out, can be found in both everyday English and in formal writing. Mastering them will not only enrich your vocabulary but also make your English sound more natural and precise.
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