drains away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drains away" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of something being removed or diminished gradually, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "As the sun set, the warmth of the day slowly drains away, leaving a cool evening breeze."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Power drains away.

The New York Times - Magazine

The smile drains away.

The Guardian - Film

Competition drains away profit.

The New York Times

Light drains away, silence falls.

The New Yorker

The visiting time drains away.

The Guardian

Sometimes the river even drains away completely.

The Guardian - Books

The plot seems improbable and the poetry drains away.

The New York Times - Arts

When you are leaking goals, your confidence drains away.

The Guardian - Sport

It is struggling now, as support drains away.

The Guardian

Commercial competition prevents that – and drains away cash.

The Guardian - Opinion

When you faint, the blood drains away and your knees don't bend.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "drains away" to vividly describe the gradual loss of something, whether it's energy, resources, or emotions, to enhance the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "drains away" excessively in overly dramatic or melodramatic situations; opt for more subtle language if the context requires a lighter tone to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drains away" primarily functions as a verb phrase, typically used intransitively. It describes a process where something gradually diminishes or disappears. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used to indicate a progressive reduction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "drains away" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the gradual disappearance or reduction of something, be it tangible or intangible. Ludwig confirms that this expression is grammatically correct and widely used, as evidenced by its presence in numerous reputable sources, including news media and academic publications. Its meaning is clear, and it can be used in both formal and informal contexts to effectively convey a sense of progressive loss or depletion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ebbs away

This suggests a gradual reduction, similar to the tide receding, emphasizing a natural decline.

dissipates

This highlights the gradual disappearance of something, often energy or emotion, implying a fading effect.

flows out

This conveys a sense of outward movement and depletion, often referring to liquids or resources.

leaks out

This suggests a slow, often unwanted, loss of something, implying a lack of control or containment.

seeps away

This implies a gradual and subtle disappearance, often unnoticed or difficult to prevent.

vanishes

This conveys a complete and often sudden disappearance, lacking the gradual aspect of "drains away".

diminishes

This emphasizes a reduction in size, importance, or intensity, focusing on the lessening effect.

depletes

This stresses the complete exhaustion of a resource or supply, highlighting the emptiness left behind.

fades

This suggests a gradual loss of color, brightness, or strength, emphasizing a weakening effect.

recedes

This conveys a movement backward or away, often referring to physical things or abstract concepts like memories.

FAQs

How can I use "drains away" in a sentence?

You can use "drains away" to describe a gradual loss or reduction. For example, "His confidence "drains away" with each mistake he makes" or "The color "drains away" from her face when she heard the news".

What can I say instead of "drains away"?

You can use alternatives like "ebbs away", "dissipates", or "flows out" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "drain away" instead of "drains away"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "drain away" for plural subjects (e.g., "The problems drain away their energy"). Use "drains away" for singular subjects (e.g., "The stress drains away her energy").

What's the difference between "drains away" and "washes away"?

"Drains away" implies a gradual depletion or reduction, while "washes away" suggests a more forceful and sudden removal, often by water or similar force.