The phrase "gotten the drift" is an informal idiomatic expression that means to understand, comprehend, or grasp the general idea or meaning of something, usually through inference or intuition. It implies that the individual has captured the essence or the underlying message of a situation or conversation, even if it was not directly or explicitly stated.
The term "gotten" is the past participle of "get," which in this context refers to the act of comprehending or perceiving. The word "drift" here does not pertain to physical movement, but instead represents the main point, essence, or trend of a discussion or situation.
When someone says they have "gotten the drift," it suggests that not only have they heard and understood the literal words that were spoken, but they have also discerned the intended or hidden meaning behind them. It indicates a level of astuteness in perceiving the implications or nuances of a conversation or situation.
This phrase is often used in informal conversations among peers, friends, or colleagues to signify that the listener has picked up on the main theme or idea being conveyed, without explicitly stating it. It implies a level of empathy or connection with the speaker, as well as a shared understanding of contextual cues, non-verbal communication, or unexpressed thoughts.
