ENGLISH
REFERENCE

get the drift

idiom
Meaning

To understand, at least on some basic or general level.


Examples
SIMPLE

I explained the plan, and he seemed to get the drift.

CONTEXTUAL

She did not explain the details clearly, but I think I get the drift of what she wants.

COMPLEX

Although the professor spoke in vague, abstract terms, the students eventually got the drift of his complex argument.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    can't get enough

    Greatly enjoys; likes a lot.

  2. 02

    catch someone's drift

    To understand the meaning or implications of someone’s pronouncement.

  3. 03

    could not get elected dogcatcher

    Said of someone, particularly a politician, who is extremely unpopular.

  4. 04

    don't get someone started

    Used to attempt to avoid or abbreviate a discussion that speaker or hearer may wish to avoid.

  5. 05

    drift apart

    To lose contact, to lose one's friendship or closeness.

  6. 06

    drift off

    To fall asleep slowly.

  7. 07

    five will get you ten

    I strongly believe.

  8. 08

    get a charge out of

    To derive excitement, entertainment, or pleasure from.

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