drill in
B1 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To make someone learn something by repeating it again and again until they can't forget it.
Literal meaning: To drill (bore) something inward — repetition bores the knowledge into someone's mind.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
informal
To teach or enforce something through constant repetition so that it is firmly remembered.
"The coach drilled in the defensive formations until every player could execute them automatically."
Grammar: separable
2 A2 neutral
To physically insert a drill or screw into something.
"He drilled in the screws to fix the shelf firmly to the wall."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Often used when talking about strict teachers, military training, or parents who insist on certain values. Suggests that the learning process involves repeated practice or instruction, and is often used critically.
Commonly used with
lesson rules facts discipline habit values
Forms
Base
drill in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
drills in
he/she/it
Past simple
drilled in
yesterday
Past participle
drilled in
have + pp
-ing form
drilling in
continuous
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