a long draw

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a long draw" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to drawing, smoking, or taking a breath, often implying a prolonged action. Example: "After a long draw from his cigar, he finally relaxed and leaned back in his chair."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

She was like that [mimes taking a long draw on a cigarette] … Like X Factor.

The Guardian - Music

"We've earned this", he sighed, taking a long draw from his plastic cup.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

On camera, he then took a long draw on his cigarette.

The Guardian

"In changing management, we found that our old management had…" He takes a long draw on his cigarette and picks a ladybird off his wrist.

The Guardian

NEW ORLEANS — James Carville, the noted political consultant and proud Louisianian, took a long draw on his coffee at a Garden District breakfast spot here recently before shaking his head and offering a wry smile.

The New York Times - Sports

He then took a long draw on his cigarette, as if to punctuate his laughter with a pause that made it clear this was no laughing matter.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But I'm anticipating a long drawn out stand-off".

The Guardian

It is also a long drawn-out illness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Coming out to myself was a long drawn out teenage thing.

Independent

From local skirmishes along the frontier, a long drawn-out war with the Turks developed (1592 1606).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Would the government have a long drawn-out consultation about repealing racist laws?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, consider using "a long draw" to reveal a character's mood or inner thoughts, as the action often suggests contemplation or stress.

Common error

Avoid using "a long draw" in contexts where a quick, sharp intake is intended. The phrase implies a deliberate, extended action, not a sudden gasp.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a long draw" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb, such as "take" or "have". It describes the action of drawing something (like smoke or liquid) in a prolonged manner. Ludwig confirms its proper usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a long draw" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a prolonged intake of something, often breath, smoke, or liquid. Ludwig's AI confirms this, showcasing varied examples from sources like The Guardian and The New York Times. While not exceedingly common, it's versatile enough for neutral contexts, adding vividness to descriptions. Related alternatives include "a deep inhalation" or "a slow drag", each with slight differences in emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended deliberate action and avoids conveying unintended quick intakes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a drawn-out breath

Highlights the extended nature of a breath.

a deep inhalation

Focuses on the act of breathing in deeply.

a slow drag

Similar to "a long draw", often referring to smoking.

a prolonged puff

Specifically relates to smoking and extending the duration of a puff.

a sustained pull

Highlights the continuous nature of the drawing action.

a lengthy sip

Emphasizes the extended duration of drinking something.

a hearty gulp

Emphasizes a large and satisfying intake of liquid or air.

a considerable draught

Emphasizes the quantity of intake.

a generous swig

Implies a large and perhaps indulgent intake of a beverage.

a lingering taste

Focuses on the prolonged sensation of flavor.

FAQs

How can I use "a long draw" in a sentence?

You can use "a long draw" to describe the act of inhaling deeply from a cigarette or pipe, for example: "He took "a long draw" from his cigar, contemplating the offer".

What can I say instead of "a long draw" when referring to smoking?

Alternatives include "a deep puff", "a slow drag", or "a prolonged inhalation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a long draw" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a long draw" might be more suitable for descriptive or narrative writing rather than highly formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "a sustained intake" for a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "a long draw" and "a deep breath"?

"A deep breath" generally refers to taking in air, while ""a long draw"" can also apply to smoking or drinking, implying a more deliberate and potentially pleasurable or habitual action.