draw a bead on

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Thân thiện
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

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