Draft vs. Draught: What's the Difference?
The words draft and draught can be confusing because they are alternate spellings of the same concept but often diverge in usage. Draft typically refers to a preliminary version of a piece of writing, a plan, a sketch, or the action of pulling or hauling. Alternatively, in American English, draft also pertains to the selection of individuals for certain duties, like military service. Draught is commonly used in British English for some of the same meanings, like a current of air or the act of drawing liquid from a container, but also specifically denotes beer drawn from a keg rather than a can or bottle.
How do you use the word draft in a sentence?
Draft is particularly used when discussing a preliminary outline or version of a document that is subject to revisions. In a different context, it refers to the compulsory recruitment for military service, indicating that someone has been selected. Draft can also describe the movement of air, as found in a room or through a ventilation system. The term involves an element of progression, either in creating and revising or in moving and selecting.
Examples of draft in a sentence
- The architect unveiled the initial draft of the building plans.
- During the Vietnam War, many young men faced the draft.
- To reduce heating costs, he sealed the windows to prevent cold drafts.
How do you use the word draught in a sentence?
Draught is used in British English to describe a flow of air in a particular direction, akin to the American 'draft.' It also specifically refers to beer that is served from a cask or keg rather than from a bottle or can. When speaking about a quantity of liquid that is drunk in one swallow, draught is again the preferred term in British English. Knowing the correct context and regional usage is vital when choosing between draft and 'draught.'
Examples of draught in a sentence
- He shivered as he felt the cold draught coming from the window.
- The locals at the pub prefer their beer on draught rather than bottled.
- The horse took a long draught from the cool stream.
Draft and draught definition, parts of speech, and pronunciation
Draft definition:
Draft refers to a preliminary version of a written work or plan. As a noun, it also indicates a compulsory recruitment for military service or a flow of air in an environment. As a verb, it describes the act of writing such preliminary versions or to select or enlist for a specific purpose.
Draft parts of speech:
Draft pronunciation:
Draft is pronounced as /dræft/ with a short 'a' sound as in 'cat.'
Draught definition:
Draught, used predominantly in British English, is a noun meaning a current of cool air in a room or a serving of drink (especially beer) drawn from a large container. It can also describe the action of pulling a load or taking a large drink of liquid.
Draught parts of speech:
Draught pronunciation:
Draught is pronounced as /drɑːft/ with a long 'a' sound that approximates the 'a' in 'father.'
Draft refers to a preliminary version of a written work or plan. As a noun, it also indicates a compulsory recruitment for military service or a flow of air in an environment. As a verb, it describes the act of writing such preliminary versions or to select or enlist for a specific purpose.
Draft parts of speech:
- As a noun: The draft of the novel was finished but required editing.
- As a verb: The coach drafted the young player for his exceptional speed.
Draft pronunciation:
Draft is pronounced as /dræft/ with a short 'a' sound as in 'cat.'
Draught definition:
Draught, used predominantly in British English, is a noun meaning a current of cool air in a room or a serving of drink (especially beer) drawn from a large container. It can also describe the action of pulling a load or taking a large drink of liquid.
Draught parts of speech:
- As a noun (air): The draught from the open window made the room chilly.
- As a noun (drink): He ordered a pint of draught to quench his thirst.
Draught pronunciation:
Draught is pronounced as /drɑːft/ with a long 'a' sound that approximates the 'a' in 'father.'
Draft vs. Draught in a nutshell
In summary, draft is a term used to describe a preliminary version, military conscription, or a current of air, and is more commonly used in American English. Draught holds similar meanings in British English, often referring to the same concepts, especially a current of air or the action of drawing liquid, but further serves as a specialized term for beer served from a large container instead of a bottle. The key takeaway is to recognize the different spellings and particular uses based on regional preferences and contexts.
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