DRAW LOTS Meaning and
Definition
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"Draw lots" is an idiomatic phrase that refers to the act of determining or deciding something by a random or chance-based method. The term can be traced back to ancient times when people used to draw or select objects or pieces of paper with names or numbers written on them from a container, usually referred to as a "lot," in order to make a decision or allocate something fairly.
In practical terms, "drawing lots" is often used as a way to choose or assign tasks or responsibilities when there are multiple options or individuals involved, and it is desired to ensure fairness by eliminating bias or favoritism. It relies on the principle that random selection can lead to an impartial outcome, almost like leaving things up to fate.
The process typically involves participants placing their names or some form of identification into a receptacle, followed by an impartial individual randomly selecting or "drawing" one or more lots from the collection. The person or thing associated with the chosen lots is then considered the designated recipient or winner.
While the phrase "draw lots" is often used metaphorically to describe random decision-making, it carries a historical connotation of physically drawing or selecting slips of paper or objects. In modern times, the process may be simulated electronically using random number generators or other digital means, but the underlying concept remains the same.
Common Misspellings for DRAW LOTS
- sraw lots
- xraw lots
- craw lots
- fraw lots
- rraw lots
- eraw lots
- deaw lots
- ddaw lots
- dfaw lots
- dtaw lots
- d5aw lots
- d4aw lots
- drzw lots
- drsw lots
- drww lots
- drqw lots
- draq lots
- draa lots
- dras lots
- drae lots
- drawlots
Etymology of DRAW LOTS
The term "draw lots" has its roots in ancient practices of using lots or random objects to make decisions or assign tasks. The word "draw" in this context refers to the act of selecting or extracting something, while "lots" originally referred to objects like stones, pieces of wood, or strips of paper that were used for this purpose.
The practice of drawing lots can be traced back to ancient times and was prevalent in various cultures across the world. In ancient Greece, for example, lots were often pieces of pottery with names or symbols on them, which were drawn to determine outcomes or assign responsibilities. The term "draw lots" likely emerged from this practice and was eventually adopted in English.
Over time, "draw lots" evolved to take on a broader meaning, referring to any instance where a decision or assignment is made by a random selection process.
Idioms with the word DRAW LOTS
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draw lots
To draw lots means to randomly select or choose something or someone by chance, often by drawing a piece of paper or object from a container without looking. This method is used to make a decision or allocate tasks fairly and impartially.
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cast/draw lots
To cast or draw lots means to make a decision or choose someone or something at random, typically by drawing from a group of options. It is often used to determine a winner or choose a person for a task or position.
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