ENGLISH
REFERENCE

draw on

phrasal verb.
Definition

phrasal verb. to use information, experience, or a supply of something to help you do a task.

phrasal verb. to utilize a particular resource, such as knowledge, experience, or financial reserves, as a basis for a current action or project.


SIMPLE

She draws on her experience as a teacher to write children's books.

CONTEXTUAL

The novelist draws on his childhood memories to create a realistic setting for the story.

COMPLEX

The research team will draw on extensive historical archives to substantiate their claims regarding the economic shift.

Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
draw + on + object
Usage

transitive; the object is typically an abstract resource like knowledge, skills, or memories.

Teaching tip

contrast with the literal 'draw' (to sketch); here, the metaphor is 'pulling' from a well or source of supply.

Pitfall

He draws on to his savings.He draws on his savings.the verb is followed directly by the object without an extra preposition like 'to'.

Last updated April 24, 2026