The phrasal verb "bring to" is utilized predominantly in formal contexts, often found in professional, legal, or medical settings. It is employed to signify making someone or something regain consciousness or awareness, for example, 'bring him to after he fainted.' This usage is rather narrow and specific, focusing on recovery or revival. Additionally, "bring to" can also refer to halting or slowing down a ship, particularly in maritime terminology. Due to its specific nature, the frequency of "bring to" is relatively lower in everyday informal speech compared to other phrasal verbs that may have broader or more versatile uses. Understanding of the phrasal verb generally requires awareness of the context in which it is applied, particularly as it can bridge the semantic gap between informal dialogue and more technical language.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To restore someone to consciousness.
The doctor was able to bring the patient to with smelling salts.
After fainting in the heat, she was quickly brought to by the paramedics.
2. To present something to someone's attention or consideration.
The committee was asked to bring the proposal to the board on Friday.
He decided to bring the issue to management during the meeting.