[Idiom] CATCH DRIFT. - Uncover the Secrets to Effective Communication

Understand the general idea.

To "Catch drift" means to understand the general idea or the gist of what someone is saying without needing every detail explained. This idiom is particularly useful in conversations where subtleties and implications are more significant than direct statements. In today’s fast-paced world, being able to catch someone's drift efficiently can enhance your communication skills, making interactions quicker and more effective. This skill is particularly valuable in settings like business meetings or casual conversations where hints and implied meanings often carry the bulk of the message.

Example Sentences

1. Do you catch my drift, or should I explain more?

   The speaker is asking if the listener understands the implied message or if further explanation is needed.

2. She caught his drift and nodded.

   She understood the subtle or indirect information being conveyed and showed agreement.

3. After a few hints, everyone seemed to catch the drift of what he was implying.

   The subtle hints eventually made sense to everyone as to what he was indirectly suggesting.