withdraw - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
withdraw Word Meanings
- to take back or away something
- to pull out or remove
- to retreat or go away from a place
withdraw Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
withdraw Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/wɪðˈdrɔː/
US
/wɪðˈdrɔ/
withdraw Word Etymology
withdraw = with- (back) + draw (pull). Origin: Old English from Latin 'withdrawere' via Old French. Memory image: Imagine someone pulling back a bowstring, ready to shoot an arrow, but then gently lowering it back down.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I slip my hand into my pocket, hold the edge of a card, and feel it shift as I begin to withdraw it. I pause, size up the weight, and adjust my grip, deciding how far to pull it. The moment is quiet, a small turn of decision as I let the card settle back, choosing to withdraw from the pull I felt. Walking away, I keep the card in my hand and feel the space open for something else.
Real Context
Withdraw means to remove or pull back something you once had, or to move away from a place or situation. You can withdraw money from a bank, withdraw an application, or withdraw troops from a country. It can also describe choosing to stop participating in an activity or retreat emotionally, like withdrawing into yourself. The word comes from with- back and draw, tracing back through Old English and Latin roots; a vivid image is pulling a bowstring back and then easing it away. In usage, remember that some phrasal patterns use withdraw with prepositions: withdraw from something, withdraw into a habit or mindset.
Usage Reminders
- - Use withdraw for removing something physical or stepping back from a commitment.
- - Pair with from when describing removal from a place or involvement (withdraw from the competition).
- - Do not confuse with pull out in all contexts; some senses require more formal language.
- - For money, always specify the account or bank (withdraw from your account).
- - Remember the related noun withdrawal for the act of taking money or backing out.
Common Misconceptions
- withdraw and pull out are interchangeable in all contexts
- withdraw always means removing money
- withdraw from a situation and leave immediately are the same
- withdraw should never take a preposition
- withdraw as a noun is never used in finance
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, withdraw is a compact, formal verb that covers removing tangible items as well as stepping back from commitments; learners often misapply it with casual 'pull out' or mix up the preposition with 'from' versus other particles.
Learning Tips
- Learn the money sense first (withdraw money).
- Pair with from for leaving a place or commitment (withdraw from).
- Remember the noun withdrawal for the act of pulling back or taking money.
- Differentiate from pull out in casual contexts.
- Practice with prepositions: withdraw from vs withdraw into.
- Use simple synonyms to check meaning in context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'withdraw'?
A.Receive
B.Take out
C.Deposit
D.Buy
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'withdraw' correctly?
A.He withdrew his team from the competition.
B.She withdrew her shoes from the closet.
C.I want to withdraw some money from the bank.
D.They withdrew their dinner from the oven.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'withdraw'?
A.Collect
B.Insert
C.Eject
D.Consume
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'withdraw'?
A.Deposit
B.Return
C.Submit
D.Cancel
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario where you might need to 'withdraw' something?
A.I need to take out cash from the ATM.
B.He bought a new phone online.
C.They went to the store to pick up their groceries.
D.She decided to borrow a book from the library.
Related Listening
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