Definition

Verb (transitive) 1. To aim a firearm carefully at a target: To align the sights of a gun precisely on a target in preparation for firing. 2. To focus one's efforts or attention on a specific goal or target: To identify something as an objective and direct one's energy or resources toward achieving it.

Usage

This phrase is often used to describe a moment of focused targeting, either literal (with a weapon) or figurative (with an ambition). It implies precision, intent, and concentration.

Examples

• Literal (aiming a firearm):
  • The sniper drew a bead on the target from 500 meters away.
  • He drew a bead on the moving deer and waited for the perfect shot.
• Figurative (focusing on a goal):
  • Our company is drawing a bead on the Asian market for our next expansion.
  • She drew a bead on the championship title and trained relentlessly.

Advanced Usage

• "to have something/someone drawn a bead on": To be the specific target of focused attention or intention.
  • With that controversial statement, the politician now has the media drawn a bead on him.

Variants and Related Words

• Take aim (at): A more common synonym for the literal meaning of aiming a weapon.
• Set one's sights on: A close synonym for the figurative meaning of targeting a goal.
• Zero in on: To focus attention or aim directly at a target.

Synonyms

• Target (verb): To select as an object of attention or attack.
• Aim at: To point or direct (a weapon, remark, or effort) toward a target.
• Set as a goal: To establish something as an objective.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

Note: "Draw a bead on" is an idiomatic phrasal verb itself and does not have further common phrasal verb splits.

Related Idioms

• In one's crosshairs: To be the target of someone's attention or attack (derived from the crosshairs in a gun's scope).
  • The new startup is in the crosshairs of the industry giant.
• Line up a shot: To prepare to aim and fire, often used figuratively for preparing to take an opportunity.
  • The sales team is lining up a shot at the big contract.

Verb

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