get the drift: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘get the drift’ mean?
The idiom "get the drift" means to understand the general idea or meaning of something, even if it is not explicitly stated or explained.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "go with the wind" means to be unpredictable or easily swayed by circumstances, lacking firmness or commitment.
The idiom "go without saying" means that something is so obvious or well-known that it doesn't need to be stated explicitly.
The idiom "give someone to understand" means to make someone believe or think that something is true, usually by implying or suggesting it indirectly.
One idiom that has stood the test of time is "give someone to understand." This phrase has been used in English-speaking countries since the early 16th century. It carries the meaning of causing someone to believe or infer something without explicitly stating it.
The idiom "get wind of" means to hear or learn about something, often through rumors or indirect sources. It implies becoming aware of information that was previously unknown or secret.
The idiom "get wind" is a commonly used expression in English that means to become aware or informed about something, usually news or information that was previously unknown. It has been in use since at least the 18th century, as seen in literary works from that era.
The idiom "get to the point" means to speak or write directly and concisely, without unnecessary details or digressions.
The idiom "get to the point" is frequently used in various contexts, including personal conversations, professional settings, written communications, interviews, and presentations. It is a way of urging the speaker or writer to cut through unnecessary details and provide the essential information promptly.
The idiom "get to the bottom of" means to investigate or find out the underlying or true cause of something, often by thorough examination or questioning.
The idiom "get to grips with" means to become familiar with or understand something difficult or challenging. It implies taking control and actively engaging with the subject matter in order to overcome any obstacles or difficulties.
The idiom "get through one's head" means to finally understand or accept something, especially after repeated attempts or explanations.
Deciphering Subtle Meaning
The idiom "get the drift" is a commonly used phrase in American English that conveys an understanding of an underlying message or the ability to grasp the intended meaning of a situation or a topic. The phrase is informal and often used in social or casual contexts. It has been in use for several decades and has become a familiar expression in everyday conversations.
While the exact origin of the idiom is uncertain, its usage can be traced back to the early 20th century. The word "drift" in this context refers to the general course or direction of something, indicating that one can comprehend the overall movement or intention portrayed in a conversation, narrative, or situation.
Interestingly, the idiom "get the drift" shares a similar meaning with other idiomatic expressions, such as "catch someone's drift" or "see what I'm getting at." These alternative phrases reinforce the concept of understanding an underlying message or grasping an inferred meaning. They serve as rhetorical devices to ensure effective communication and make sure the listener comprehends the intended point.
The idiom is typically used in spoken language, particularly in informal or colloquial settings. It may be employed during conversations, discussions, or storytelling to ensure that the speaker's message is properly understood. Additionally, the idiom can be used in written texts that aim to imitate informal speech or convey a casual tone.
As a linguistic expression, the idiom "get the drift" has become deeply ingrained in American English and is commonly used by a wide range of individuals regardless of age, gender, or social background. Its popularity and widespread use signify its role as a tool for effective communication. The versatility of this idiom enables speakers to convey their point concisely while maintaining a casual and relatable manner of communication.
Another related idiom is "catch someone's drift." This phrase conveys the idea of successfully understanding or perceiving someone's intended meaning or message. It is often used to indicate that one comprehends the underlying point that another person is trying to convey. For example, if someone says, "We need to start working on the project right away," and another person responds, "I catch your drift, let's get started," it means the second person understands the urgency and agrees to begin working immediately.
Similarly, the idiom "get the point" serves as a synonym for "get the drift." It implies that one comprehends the central idea or key message being communicated. For instance, if someone gives a long explanation about the benefits of healthy eating, and another person responds, "I get the point, we should be more mindful of our diet," it means they understand the main message without needing further explanation.
Additionally, the idiom "get a clue" can be used interchangeably with "get the drift" to indicate that someone needs to better understand or perceive a situation or message. It is often used when someone is not fully aware or comprehending the context or significance of a given situation. For example, if someone is explaining a complex mathematical concept, and another person says, "I don't get a clue," it means they are admitting to not understanding the topic and need more clarification.
Another related idiom is "get one's head around," which is used to convey the difficulty or challenge in understanding something. It suggests that one needs to put in effort and cognitive resources to comprehend a complex idea or concept. For example, if someone is explaining a complicated scientific theory, and another person responds, "It's hard for me to get my head around it," it means they find it challenging to grasp the concept, but they are trying to understand it.
Furthermore, the idiom "get wind" can also be associated with "get the drift." It refers to the act of becoming aware of or getting information about a particular situation or piece of news. It implies that one has received knowledge or learned something, often through informal channels or grapevine communication. For instance, if someone says, "I got wind that there will be layoffs in the company," it means they have heard or become aware of the possibility of job cuts, even if it has not been officially announced.
The idiom "get the drift" is an integral part of American English vocabulary that enables effective communication by ensuring the understanding of underlying messages or implied meanings. Its long-standing history in colloquial usage reflects its importance in everyday conversations. The idiom's informal nature and widespread usage make it a vital component of the linguistic landscape. While the origin of the phrase remains unclear, its enduring popularity and adaptability continue to contribute to the richness of American English.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "get the drift" can be used in a sentence:
- I explained the concept to her twice, but she still didn't get the drift.
- After hearing his long explanation, I finally got the drift of his argument.
- As the meeting went on, I started to lose interest and struggled to get the drift of the conversation.
More "Understanding" idioms
