Meaning of the word "draw off" in English

What does "draw off" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

draw off

US /drɔː ɔːf/
UK /drɔː ɔːf/

Phrasal Verb

1.

to remove liquid from something, especially by draining

Example:
You need to draw off the excess water from the pasta.
The nurse had to draw off some blood for the test.
2.

to divert or attract attention or resources away from something

Example:
The new project might draw off resources from existing ones.
His sudden illness helped to draw off suspicion from the others.