What are the definitions of “drill down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Search through layers of information on a computer.
I really had to DRILL DOWN to get the answers from the database.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “drill down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb drill down is to search through layers of information on a computer or in a database to find specific details or data. It is often used in the context of data analysis or when working with complex systems.
What are the different verb forms of “drill down”?
| Root Verb | drill down |
| Third Person Singular Present | drills down |
| Present Participle | drilling down |
| Simple Past | drilled down |
| Past Participle | drilled down |
Example
To find the exact data, we need to drill down into the system.
Example
She drills down into the database to find the required information.
Example
He is drilling down through the layers of data to find the root cause.
Example
Yesterday, they drilled down into the system to identify the issue.
Example
The problem was resolved after they had drilled down and found the error.
What kind of phrasal verb is “drill down”?
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
“drill down” 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
We need to drill down to find the specific data.
Example
She drilled down to locate the missing information.
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
“drill down” 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
We need to drill down to find the specific data.
Example
She drilled down to locate the missing information.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “drill down”?
Drill-down analysis
A process of exploring data or information in a hierarchical structure, moving from general to specific.
Example
The team conducted a drill-down analysis to identify the factors affecting the project's success.
Good things to know
Does “drill down” have an informal or formal tone?
Drill down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in professional settings, especially when discussing data analysis, computer systems, or complex information structures.
