a net that is dragged across the bottom of a river, lake, or the sea to catch fish, a systematic search for someone or something

throw out a dragnet, dragnet approach, dragnet operation

Formal and Informal Expressions of dragnet

In different contexts, you can replace 'dragnet' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'systematic search' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'wide search' is a commonplace synonym.

dragnet: Explore its Definition & Usage

dragnet Definition

1a net that is dragged across the bottom of a river, lake, or the sea to catch fish
2a systematic search for someone or something

Using dragnet: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dragnet" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The fishermen cast their dragnets into the sea.
Example
The police conducted a dragnet to find the suspect.
Example
The company launched a dragnet to recruit new employees.

dragnet Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dragnet

Phrases with dragnet

throw out a dragnet
to conduct a wide and thorough search for someone or something
Example
The authorities threw out a dragnet to find the escaped prisoner.
dragnet approach
a method of searching or investigating that involves casting a wide net and gathering as much information as possible
Example
The detective used a dragnet approach to solve the case.
dragnet operation
a coordinated effort to catch criminals or suspects
Example
The police conducted a dragnet operation to apprehend the gang members.

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Summary: dragnet in Brief

A 'dragnet' [drægˈnet] is a type of fishing net that is dragged along the bottom of a body of water to catch fish. It can also refer to a systematic search for someone or something. Examples include 'The fishermen cast their dragnets into the sea.' and 'The police conducted a dragnet to find the suspect.' Phrases like 'throw out a dragnet' and 'dragnet approach' denote a wide and thorough search.