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."
inseparable
draw on
B2 neutral inseparable transitive/intransitive
To make use of a reserve of experience, skill, or knowledge, or for time to pass or night to approach.
In plain English
To use your past experience or skills to help with something now, or for evening to get closer.
What does "draw on" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
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."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To pull on something, or to draw (sketch) on a surface.
Actually means
To use your past experience or skills to help with something now, or for evening to get closer.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "draw on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
experience knowledge skills reserves memories expertise
How to conjugate "draw on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "draw on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "draw on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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