What are the definitions of “draw even”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Equalize one's competitive position.
The exhausted horse DREW EVEN at the finish line.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “draw even”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb draw even is to equalize one's competitive position, usually in a race or competition. It means that two or more competitors have the same score, position, or level.
What are the different verb forms of “draw even”?
| Root Verb | draw even |
| Third Person Singular Present | draws even |
| Present Participle | drawing even |
| Simple Past | drew even |
| Past Participle | drawn even |
Example
The two teams drew even in the final minutes of the game.
Example
She draws even with her opponent in the last lap of the race.
Example
The underdog is drawing even with the favorite in the final round.
Example
The exhausted horse drew even at the finish line.
Example
The two candidates had drawn even in the polls before the election.
What kind of phrasal verb is “draw even”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“draw even” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The two runners drew even as they approached the finish line.
Example
The teams drew even in the final minutes of the game.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“draw even” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The two runners drew even as they approached the finish line.
Example
The teams drew even in the final minutes of the game.
Good things to know
Does “draw even” have an informal or formal tone?
Draw even is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in sports, competitions, and other situations where equalizing one's position is relevant.
