draw out
To slowly pull something out, to make something last longer, or to help a shy person feel comfortable enough to talk.
Meanings
To make something last longer than necessary; to prolong.
"The lawyer tried to draw out the cross-examination to tire the witness."
To encourage a shy or reserved person to speak or express themselves.
"The therapist had a gentle way of drawing out even the most reluctant patients."
To take or extract money from a bank or a physical object from a place.
"He drew out his wallet and paid for dinner without hesitation."
(Of days) to become longer, especially as spring arrives.
"By March, the days are really starting to draw out."
Versatile phrasal verb with physical, temporal, and interpersonal senses. The 'prolong' sense is often slightly negative. The 'encourage to speak' sense is positive and common in teaching and counselling contexts.
Commonly used with
Forms
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