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draw on

B2 neutral inseparable both
In simple words

To use your past experience or skills to help with something now, or for evening to get closer.

Literal meaning: To pull on something, or to draw (sketch) on a surface.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

To use a supply of something, especially experience, knowledge, or skill, as a resource.

"In writing the novel, she drew on her own childhood memories for inspiration."

Grammar: inseparable
2 C1 idiomatic formal

(Mainly literary/British) For time or a period of day to approach or advance.

"As evening drew on, the temperature began to drop sharply."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral

To put on clothing, especially gloves or stockings, by pulling them onto the body.

"She drew on her gloves before stepping out into the cold."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

The 'use a resource' sense is very common in academic and professional writing. The 'approach' sense (as in 'evening draws on') is more literary and chiefly British. Do not confuse with the literal meaning of drawing something on paper or a surface.

Commonly used with

experience knowledge skills reserves memories expertise

Forms

Base
draw on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
draws on
he/she/it
Past simple
drew on
yesterday
Past participle
drawn on
have + pp
-ing form
drawing on
continuous

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