draw straws

Idioms and Phrases

Also, draw lots . Decide by a lottery using straws of different lengths. For example, Let's draw straws to see who will write the first draft . The lots version dates from the 1400s, whereas straws dates from the 1800s. Both have replaced the still older draw cuts . Another variant is draw the short straw , meaning to be the one so selected for a particular task.

Example Sentences

It was decided to draw straws, the person getting the shortest to be the first guard.

From Project Gutenberg

Now you boys must draw straws to see who gets to lick the paddle!

From Project Gutenberg

I'll draw straws with you to see who keeps guard while Bob comes to get his breakfast at the same time.

From Project Gutenberg

A number of points are marked on the map at equal distances from camp, and the scouts draw straws to see where each goes.

From Project Gutenberg

After breakfast we'll draw straws to see who does the dishes and the other two will string the aerials.

From Project Gutenberg