draw blood
The phrase "draw blood" can refer to both literal and figurative actions, including medical procedures and causing harm or emotional distress.
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Definition
B2Medical
(technical)To take a blood sample from a person or animal using a needle.
Example
- The nurse will draw blood for the lab tests.
B2Physical Harm
(general)To cause someone to bleed, typically through a cut or puncture.
Example
- The thorn on the bush drew blood from his hand.
C1Figurative
(figurative)To cause emotional harm or distress, often through harsh words or actions.
Example
- Her sharp comment was intended to draw blood.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "draw blood":
let bloodspill bloodin bloodblood testdraw offblood bankfirst bloodblood transfusionhigh bloodbleed out