Differences between cut down and narrow down
Cut down usually means to reduce the size or amount of something, while narrow down generally means to limit or reduce the number of options or choices.
Meanings and Definitions: cut down vs narrow down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cut down
- 1Consume less.
I'm trying to CUT DOWN the amount of coffee I drink during the day.
- 2Shoot.
A lot of soldiers were CUT DOWN by enemy fire as they stormed the airport.
- 3Reduce a vertical thing to ground level by cutting.
The logger CUT the tree DOWN.
- 4Cut something from a high position.
After Christmas he didn't carefully detach all the decorations, he just CUT them all DOWN.
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: cut down, narrow down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cut down
Example
I need to cut down on my sugar intake.
Example
She cuts down on her screen time before bed.
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 Cut down
To make something smaller or less in quantity or size.
Example
She decided to reduce her workload by delegating some tasks to her team members.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Narrow down
To identify or locate something precisely, especially a specific problem or solution.
Example
After analyzing the data, they were able to pinpoint the root cause of the issue and develop a plan to address it.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “cut”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in cut down vs narrow down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cut down or narrow down?
In daily conversation, people use cut down more often than narrow down. This is because cut down is used for more daily tasks and routines such as reducing expenses or cutting down on sugar intake. Narrow down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about making a decision or choosing from a list of options. So, while both phrases are used, cut down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cut down and narrow down
Cut 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 cut down and narrow down
The tone of cut down and narrow down can differ based on context. Cut down often carries a practical or health-conscious tone when related to reducing something like expenses or unhealthy habits, while narrow down typically has a focused and decisive tone, especially when referring to making a choice or decision.
