What does “Draw a blank” mean?
"Draw a blank" means to be unable to remember or think of something.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I tried to remember his name, but I just drew a blank.
Example
When asked about the incident, he drew a blank and couldn't provide any details.
Example
I was trying to solve the puzzle, but my mind drew a blank and I couldn't come up with an answer
Is “Draw a blank” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Draw a blank” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Draw a blank” effectively in context?
You can use "Draw a Blank" when you are unable to remember or think of something. It implies a momentary lapse in memory or a failure to come up with an answer. For example, if someone asks you a question and you can't recall the information, you might say, 'I'm sorry, I drew a blank.'
- 1Memory
I tried to remember his name, but I just drew a blank.
- 2Lack of Information
When asked about the incident, he drew a blank and couldn't provide any details.
- 3Problem Solving
I was trying to solve the puzzle, but my mind drew a blank and I couldn't come up with an answer.
Similar phrases to “Draw a blank”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Draw a blank” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Draw a Blank" is unknown.
Is “Draw a blank” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Draw a Blank" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe moments when they can't remember something or when they fail to come up with an answer.
What tone does “Draw a blank” have?
"Draw a Blank" conveys a tone of frustration or disappointment. It suggests a temporary mental block or a moment of forgetfulness.
Can “Draw a blank” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Draw a Blank" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common experience of forgetting or being unable to recall information. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or meetings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I tried to remember, but I drew a blank.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I drew a blank!' to express frustration or confusion.
