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."
separable
drill in
B1 informal separable transitive
To teach something by constant repetition until it is thoroughly learned.
In plain English
To make someone learn something by repeating it again and again until they can't forget it.
What does "drill in" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To drill (bore) something inward — repetition bores the knowledge into someone's mind.
Actually means
To make someone learn something by repeating it again and again until they can't forget it.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "drill in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
lesson rules facts discipline habit values
How to conjugate "drill in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "drill in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "drill in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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