The phrase "draw apart" consists of two words, "draw" and "apart". The first word is spelled as /drɔː/, indicating the pronunciation of the vowel sound of "aw" or "au" as in "bawl" or "caught". The second word, "apart", is spelled as /əˈpɑrt/, which represents the schwa sound in the first syllable (the sound similar to "uh") and the "ar" sound in the second syllable, as in "car". "Draw apart" means to move in different directions or to separate from each other.
The phrase "draw apart" refers to the act of moving or causing something to move away from each other, creating a space or distance between two or more entities. It is often used in a figurative sense to describe the process of becoming distant, disconnected, or separate.
In a literal context, "draw apart" can describe the physical action of pulling or stretching apart objects or people. For example, two friends who are holding hands may decide to draw apart, breaking their physical connection. Similarly, a person can draw apart the curtains to allow more light into a room, creating an opening between the previously closed drapes.
In a more abstract sense, "draw apart" can describe the emotional or social process of growing apart. This can occur in friendships, relationships, or even organizations. When two individuals or groups no longer share the same values, interests, or goals, they may choose to draw apart, distancing themselves to pursue their separate paths. This can result from changing priorities, differing opinions, or shifting circumstances.
Overall, "draw apart" encompasses the idea of creating space or separation, whether in a physical, emotional, or social sense. It captures the action of moving away and the result of becoming disconnected or distant.
The word "draw" has Old English roots, derived from the Proto-Germanic word *draganą, meaning "to drag, pull". The word "apart" also has Old English origins, derived from the Middle English phrase "on part", which means "to separate or divide".
When used in combination, "draw apart" likely emerged as a phrasal verb in English, combining the action of pulling or dragging (draw) and the concept of separating or moving away (apart). Over time, this combination became a distinct phrase, commonly used to describe the act of moving or pulling something away from its joined or connected position.