What's the Difference Between 'Draft' and 'Draught'?
In this blog post we look at when to use draft and when to use draught.
'Draft' or 'Draught'?
The words draft and draught both come from the Old English word "dræf," which means "a drawing or pulling." The word has evolved over time and is now used in slightly different contexts depending on the spelling.
Draft (pronounced like "craft") is the more common spelling in American English, while draught (pronounced like "draft") is more common in British English. Both spellings are used in both countries, but it's important to choose the correct one based on the context and the intended meaning.
Draft (noun):
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A preliminary version of a document, typically one that is not yet complete or that is intended for review or discussion.
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A plan, sketch, or rough drawing.
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The act of selecting someone, typically a player in a sports league, to join a team.
Draught (noun):
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A current of air in a room or other enclosed space.
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A quantity of liquid drawn at one time, especially beer or ale drawn from a cask.
The word draft has been in use in English since the 14th century, and it has always referred to a preliminary version of a document or a plan. The word draught, on the other hand, has been in use since the 16th century and has always referred to a current of air or a quantity of liquid drawn at one time.
Both spellings have undergone changes in pronunciation and spelling over time, but they have retained their original meanings. It is important to choose the correct spelling based on the intended meaning and the context in which the word is being used.
Here is an example to illustrate the difference between the two spellings:
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The writer was working on a draft of her novel, making changes and revisions before it was ready to be published. (draft refers to a preliminary version of a document)
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The bartender poured a draught of beer from the tap, filling the mug to the top. (draught refers to a quantity of liquid drawn at one time)
Examples of Draft in a Sentence
Here are 10 example sentences using the word draft:
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I'm working on a draft of my research paper, so it's not quite finished yet.
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Can you give me a draft of the budget for the project?
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The NFL held its annual draft to select new players for the league.
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The company sent me a draft of the contract for review.
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I need to draw up a draft of the proposal before presenting it to the client.
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She made a rough draft of the painting before starting to work on the final version.
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He showed me a draft of his new book, and it looks like it's going to be great.
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The government released a draft of the new legislation for public consultation.
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The team made a few changes to the draft before submitting it to the publisher.
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She had a draft of the speech written, but she made some changes before giving it.
Examples of Draught in a Sentence
Here are 10 example sentences using the word draught:
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The draught from the open window was making the papers on the desk blow around.
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I'll have a draught of ale, please.
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The horse pulled the carriage with ease, thanks to the light draught.
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The draught of the fireplace was causing the room to be too hot.
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He ordered a pint of draught beer at the pub.
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The draught of the door was causing the room to be too cold.
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She felt a draught on her back and realized that the window was open.
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The room was stuffy, so he opened the window to let in some draught.
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The draught from the air conditioning was making her feel cold.
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He closed the door to keep out the draught.
