DRAW UP

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'draw up' means to prepare a document, plan, or list by writing it, usually with careful consideration and thoroughness.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'draw up' means to prepare a document, plan, or list by writing it, usually with careful consideration and thoroughness.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can come between 'draw' and 'up' (e.g., 'draw a plan up').
Register
Neutral
It is suitable in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
It requires a direct object (e.g., 'draw up a contract').

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple draw up They draw up plans for the new community center.
Past Simple drew up Yesterday, she drew up the agenda for the meeting.
Present Continuous drawing up We are drawing up a list of potential donors.
Present Perfect have drawn up By now, they have drawn up the final report.

💡 When to Use

Creating formal documents
Use 'draw up' when preparing official documents, such as contracts, with careful attention to detail.
Example: "The lawyer will draw up the contract by tomorrow."
Planning events
'Draw up' is apt for organizing events with precise scheduling and planning, ensuring thorough preparation.
Example: "We need to draw up a schedule for the conference."
Writing lists
When compiling detailed lists, 'draw up' conveys a sense of organized and thoughtful list-making.
Example: "Let's draw up a shopping list before we go out."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Misplacement of object
❌ Wrong: Draw a contract up for the party.
✅ Correct: Draw up a contract for the party.
💡 Tip: Place the object after 'draw up' unless separating it for emphasis.
Using with intransitive verbs
❌ Wrong: Let's draw up quickly.
✅ Correct: Let's draw up the plans quickly.
💡 Tip: Always include an object after 'draw up'.
Confusion with 'drawn up'
❌ Wrong: We have drawn the contract up.
✅ Correct: We have drawn up the contract.
💡 Tip: Avoid breaking 'draw up' with the object in perfect form unless necessary.
Practice

DRAW UP - 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

draft prepare

Antonyms

abolish

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The team decided to ___ a contract for the merger."

drawing
draw up
drew
drawn

"To draw up a plan is to weave the threads of foresight and wisdom into the fabric of future possibilities."

In Context

In 1787, fifty-five delegates gathered in Philadelphia for the Constitutional Convention. Their mission was to draw up a new framework for the United States government. The existing Articles of Confederation had proven ineffective, leaving the young nation struggling. James Madison, known as the 'Father of the Constitution,' was instrumental in this process. As they drew up the draft, debates raged over representation, state versus federal authority, and slavery. Compromises were essential. For instance, the Great Compromise established a bicameral legislature, blending the Virginia Plan's population-based representation with the New Jersey Plan's equal state representation. The task of drawing up the Constitution was arduous, with delegates working tirelessly through sweltering summer months. On September 17, 1787, the final document was signed, though not all delegates agreed with its contents. The Constitution, once ratified by the states, laid the foundation for the federal government and remains a living document today. The efforts to draw up this document showcased the importance of negotiation and collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions about Draw Up

What is the origin of draw up?

+
The phrasal verb 'draw up' dates back to the 1500s, where 'draw' meant to sketch or outline, often used in military contexts to arrange troops.

Can draw up be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Draw up' can be used in both formal and informal contexts, suitable for preparing documents or plans requiring attention to detail.

What is the difference between draw up and draft?

+
Both 'draw up' and 'draft' denote creating documents or plans, but 'draw up' emphasizes thoroughness, while 'draft' may imply a preliminary stage.
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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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