draw a bead on

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The phrase "draw a bead on" has two main meanings, which can be understood easily.

Basic Definition:

1. To aim carefully at something: This comes from aiming a gun at a target. When you "draw a bead on" something, you are focusing on it and getting ready to take a shot.

   • Example: "The hunter drew a bead on the rabbit." This means the hunter aimed his gun at the rabbit.

2. To have a goal or ambition: In a more figurative sense, it means to set your sights on a big goal or plan you want to achieve.

   • Example: "She has drawn a bead on becoming a doctor." This means she has a strong ambition to become a doctor.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "draw a bead on" when you want to talk about focusing on something, either literally (like aiming a gun) or figuratively (like pursuing a goal).
• It's often used in contexts related to aiming, targeting, or ambition.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "draw a bead on" can imply intense focus or determination, suggesting that the person is not just casually interested but seriously pursuing their target.

Word Variants:

• Draw (verb): To pull something toward oneself.
• Bead (noun): A small round object, often used in jewelry, but here it refers to the point of aim.

Different Meanings:

• The literal meaning relates to firearms and aiming.
• The figurative meaning relates to setting goals and ambitions.

Synonyms:

• For the literal meaning: "aim at," "target," "focus on."
• For the figurative meaning: "pursue," "set sights on," "aspire to."

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Set your sights on": This is similar to "draw a bead on" when talking about ambitions.

  • Example: "He set his sights on winning the championship."

• "Take aim": This is often used in a similar context to refer to aiming at a target.

  • Example: "She took aim at her career goals."

Conclusion:

"Draw a bead on" can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. Whether you are talking about aiming a weapon or focusing on an ambitious goal, this phrase helps convey determination and focus.

Academic

Verb

1. have an ambitious plan or a lofty goal
2. aim with a gun
   • The hunter drew a bead on the rabbit

Synonyms

• aspire
• aim
• shoot for