Differences between boil down and narrow down

Boil down usually means to simplify or reduce something to its essential elements, while narrow down generally means to reduce the number of options or possibilities to a smaller, more manageable set.

Meanings and Definitions: boil down vs narrow down

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Boil down

1Simplify, reduce to the essentials.
The report's so long, I BOILED it DOWN into a two - page summary.

Narrow down

1Remove less important options to make it easier to choose.
I am not sure which university to apply to, but I have NARROWED my list DOWN to three.

Usage Examples: boil down, narrow down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

boil down

Example

We need to boil down the main points of the presentation.

Example

She boils down the complex information into a simple summary.

narrow down

Example

I need to narrow down my list of potential vacation destinations.

Example

She narrows down her choices for dinner by reading the menu carefully.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Boil down

get to the heart of

To identify or understand the most important or essential aspect of something.

Example

After analyzing the data, she was able to get to the heart of the problem and propose a solution.

cut to the chase

To get to the point or essential information without wasting time on unnecessary details.

Example

Let's cut to the chase and discuss the main issues that need to be addressed in the project.

break it down

To explain or simplify complex information or tasks into smaller, more manageable parts.

Example

He asked the teacher to break down the math problem step by step so he could understand it better.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Narrow down

whittle down

To gradually reduce the number of options or possibilities to a smaller, more manageable set.

Example

After reviewing all the resumes, she was able to whittle down the list of candidates to the top three.

eliminate options

To remove or exclude options or possibilities from consideration.

Example

We need to eliminate some options to make a final decision on which car to buy.

focus on

To concentrate or direct attention on a specific area or aspect.

Example

Let's focus on the key features that our customers value the most in our product.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “boil”

boil down to
boil away
boil up
boil over

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Differences in boil down vs narrow down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: boil down or narrow down?

In daily conversation, people use narrow down more often than boil down. This is because narrow down is used in a variety of contexts such as decision-making, problem-solving, and research. Boil down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about simplifying complex ideas or concepts. So, while both phrases are used, narrow down is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of boil down and narrow down

Boil down and narrow down are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of boil down and narrow down

The tone of boil down and narrow down can differ based on context. Boil down often carries a critical or analytical tone when related to simplifying complex ideas or concepts, while narrow down typically has a practical and focused tone, especially when referring to reducing options or possibilities.

boil down & narrow down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Boil down

Synonyms

Antonyms

Narrow down

Synonyms

Antonyms