Differences between drum out and ferret out
Drum out means to force someone to leave a place or group, usually because of bad behavior or poor performance. On the other hand, ferret out means to search for something diligently until it is found, often used in the context of uncovering hidden information or secrets.
Meanings and Definitions: drum out vs ferret out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Drum out
- 1Force someone out of their job or position.
They DRUMMED the minister OUT when she was caught lying. The minister was DRUMMED OUT of her post for lying. (The passive form with OF is more common)
Ferret out
- 1Search and discover something.
The investigation finally managed to FERRET OUT the truth.
Usage Examples: drum out, ferret out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
drum out
Example
The company decided to drum out the dishonest employee.
Example
He drums out anyone who doesn't follow the rules.
ferret out
Example
The detective managed to ferret out the hidden evidence.
Example
She ferrets out the best deals when shopping for clothes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Drum out
To officially force someone to leave an organization or institution, often as a punishment for breaking rules or regulations.
Example
The school board voted to expel the student for cheating on the final exam.
To send someone away from a place as a punishment or to get rid of them.
Example
The king decided to banish the traitor from the kingdom and never allow him to return.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Ferret out
dig up
To search for and find something that is hidden or difficult to locate.
Example
She managed to dig up some old family photos from the attic that no one had seen in years.
To discover or reveal something that was previously unknown or hidden.
Example
The journalist managed to unearth some shocking information about the politician's past that had been kept secret for years.
Differences in drum out vs ferret out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: drum out or ferret out?
Both drum out and ferret out are less common phrasal verbs that are not used as frequently in everyday conversation. However, ferret out is slightly more common than drum out because it can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of drum out and ferret out
Both drum out and ferret out are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, drum out can also be used in more formal settings such as legal or military contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of drum out and ferret out
The tone of drum out is often negative or harsh, as it implies someone being forced to leave a group or organization. In contrast, ferret out has a more neutral tone, as it simply refers to the act of searching for something.