DRAW IN

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'draw in' means to attract or involve someone or something. It can also mean to cause something to become closer or narrower.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'draw in' means to attract or involve someone or something. It can also mean to cause something to become closer or narrower.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can come between or follow both parts; e.g., 'draw someone in' or 'draw in someone'.
Register
Neutral
This phrasal verb is suitable for both formal and casual conversation.
Transitive
Yes
This verb requires an object to receive the action.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple draw in Her stories often draw in large audiences.
Past Simple drew in The charismatic leader drew in many followers.
Present Continuous drawing in The festival is drawing in tourists from around the globe.
Present Perfect have drawn in The rumors have drawn in curious onlookers.

💡 When to Use

Attracting attention
Use 'draw in' when discussing situations that attract or captivate people, like events or performances.
Example: "The exhibition successfully drew in art lovers from across the city."
Inviting participation
When involving people in activities or discussions, use 'draw in' to show engagement.
Example: "The interactive workshop drew in participants eager to learn."
Narrowing focus
Apply 'draw in' when describing actions that narrow or concentrate attention or resources.
Example: "The investigation finally drew in its focus on the prime suspect."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect verb form
❌ Wrong: The speech drawed in a large crowd.
✅ Correct: The speech drew in a large crowd.
💡 Tip: Remember the past tense is 'drew' not 'drawed'.
Intransitive usage
❌ Wrong: As autumn draw in, the days become shorter.
✅ Correct: As autumn draws in, the days become shorter.
💡 Tip: Ensure 'draw in' modifies an object in context.
Separation error
❌ Wrong: Draw in the audience she did not.
✅ Correct: She did not draw in the audience.
💡 Tip: Maintain natural sentence structure for clarity.
Practice

DRAW IN - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

attract engage

Antonyms

repel

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The new marketing strategy successfully ___ in more customers."

draws
draw in
drawing
drew's

"As life’s twilight hours draw in, embrace the growing shadows, for they cradle the wisdom of a day well-lived."

In Context

In 1924, British mountaineer George Mallory became an iconic figure, drawing in adventurers with his extraordinary climbs. His captivating tales drew in major sponsorships and a wave of enthusiasm for Everest. Despite controversies over whether he reached the summit, he drew in global attention. In June 1924, Mallory embarked on his third Everest expedition. As his team journeyed forward, the growing uncertainties drew in as ominous clouds gathered. Undaunted, Mallory and Andrew Irvine attempted to reach the summit, drawing in breathless anticipation worldwide. Tragically, Mallory and Irvine disappeared into the mountain mist, drawing in mourning but leaving an indelible mark on mountaineering. Their story continues to draw in curiosity, fueling debates about their fate and leaving a legacy that endures as Everest climbers reflect on the risks and dreams these pioneers faced.

Frequently Asked Questions about Draw In

What is the origin of draw in?

+
'Draw in' originated from the Middle English 'drawen', meaning to pull or attract closer. Variations appeared in Old English, used metaphorically to denote capturing attention or involvement.

Can draw in be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Draw in' is versatile, suitable for formal and informal contexts alike. It effectively communicates attraction or involvement in professional reports, casual conversations, and storytelling.

What is the difference between draw in and attract?

+
While both mean to capture interest, 'draw in' often suggests active engagement or narrowing focus, whereas 'attract' includes passive allure, such as visual appeal or innate qualities.
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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