draft
DRAFT
/drɑːft/
(noun) A preliminary version of a piece of writing; (verb) To prepare a preliminary version of a text.
Emphasizes that the work is not final and is expected to be revised.
The story behind the word. The word 'draft' comes from the Old English 'dragan', meaning 'to draw, drag'. This connection to 'drawing' or 'sketching' is key: a draft is like a preliminary sketch of a piece of writing, not yet fully formed or polished. Over time, it evolved to mean a preliminary written version, much like an artist's initial drawing before painting.
Word relationships
- sketch: More visual, but can apply to early ideas for writing.
- outline: A more structured plan, often preceding a full draft.
- version: More general, could be any iteration.
- final copy: The completed and polished version.
Word family
- drafter (noun): A person who drafts documents.
Collocations
- first draft
- rough draft
- final draft
- draft a letter
- draft a proposal
Example sentences
- "I've completed the first draft of my novel, but there's still a lot of revising to do." A writer working on a novel.
- "Before writing the final paper, I always draft an outline to organize my thoughts." A student planning their essay.
Memory hook
A DRAFT is like a DRAWING – it's the first sketch, not the final artwork. Draw a sketch
When not to use
Do not use 'draft' for a final, polished document; use 'final version' or 'finished paper'.
Fun facts
- The word 'draft' has many other meanings, including a current of air, a conscription into military service, and a check or order for money.
Explore more words
manuscript, prototype, provisional, conceptualize, document, improvise
Also appears in
- Communication → Writing & Composition
- Law → Legislation & Lawmaking
- Arts & Literature → Creative Process & Inspiration
- Military Science & Warfare → Conscription & Drafts
- Dining Out & Food Culture → Bars, Pubs & Nightlife
- Hobbies, Crafts & Leisure → Board Games & Tabletop
- Home & Domestic Life → Heating, Cooling & Climate
- Pets & Animals (Domestic) → Working & Service Animals
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