draw off

USAGE SUMMARY

"draw off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to remove or take away something from a larger amount or container. Example: "He carefully used a dropper to draw off a small amount of liquid from the beaker."

✓ Grammatically correct

Removing liquid or heat

Withdrawing resources

Diverting attention

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Ono tries to draw off the danger.

The New York Times - Magazine

As I get further removed, I draw off different inspirations".

The Guardian - Music

Other than that, I'm not really sure what to draw off the broader conclusions.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Most of that bulk is there to draw off heat from the electronic components.

The New York Times

He gives a lot of leadership and we draw off of that".

The New York Times - Sports

"You look great," he said, taking another draw off his drink.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Landmark theaters draw off-Broadway shows, comedians like Jerry Seinfeld and Dave Chappelle and sundry musicians.

The New York Times - Travel

An alternative is to draw-off the gas partly and optimize the train shape.

Journal of Modern Transportation

The area includes topographic features that draw off-roaders and others: Spooners, Aftershock, Sunbonnet, the Rockpile and more.

Los Angeles Times

Among others, the sensitivity of the optimum system design to the tap water draw-off and the draw-off pattern has been determined using the optimisation algorithm.

Solar Energy

The lowest system 'U' value was 0.98 withK−1 with no draw-off conditions.

Renewable Energy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning, whether it's removing liquid, diverting attention, or withdrawing resources.

Common error

Avoid using "draw off" when a simpler verb like "remove" or "extract" suffices. Overusing phrasal verbs can make your writing sound less concise.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "draw off" is that of a phrasal verb. It signifies the action of removing or extracting something from a source. Ludwig provides numerous examples where the phrase is used to describe the physical removal of liquids, heat or metaphorical removing like drawing of attention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "draw off" functions as a phrasal verb, commonly used to describe the act of removing or diverting something from a source. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider simpler alternatives like "remove" or "extract" for conciseness. Ludwig examples show common contexts in which you can find it: News & Media and Science. When writing, remember to specify the method of removal and consider the potential for confusion with similar phrases. Being aware of this can help improve the clarity and accuracy of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

siphon off

This alternative specifies the method of removal using a siphon.

extract

This term emphasizes the process of taking something out from a source.

extract off

Emphasizes extraction and separation from a source.

remove

This is a general term for taking something away.

drain

This suggests a gradual emptying of something.

withdraw

This suggests taking something back or away.

divert

This term means to redirect or turn aside.

bleed

Implies removing a fluid slowly or steadily.

skim

Suggests removing a substance from the surface.

abstract

Implies removing the essence or key parts of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "draw off" to describe removing a liquid, as in "He used a syringe to draw off the excess fluid". It can also refer to diverting something, like "They launched a feint to draw off the enemy soldiers".

What can I say instead of "draw off"?

You can use alternatives like "extract", "remove", or "divert" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "draw off of"?

While "draw off" is commonly used, adding "of" is generally redundant. It's usually better to simply use "draw off", as in "They draw off resources from the main project".

What's the difference between "draw off" and "drain"?

"Draw off" implies a more controlled or selective removal, while "drain" suggests a complete or gradual emptying. For example, you might "draw off" a sample of liquid, but "drain" a pool.