Differences between narrow down and scale down

Narrow down means to reduce the number of options or choices to a smaller, more manageable set, while scale down means to decrease the size, scope, or intensity of something.

Meanings and Definitions: narrow down vs scale down

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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.

Scale down

1Make something smaller than originally planned.
They have had to SCALE DOWN the project because of the costs.

Usage Examples: narrow down, scale down in Sentences

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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.

scale down

Example

The company decided to scale down their expansion plans.

Example

She scales down her travel plans due to financial constraints.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Narrow down

whittle down

To gradually reduce the number of options or choices through a process of elimination.

Example

After several rounds of interviews, we were able to whittle down the list of candidates to three finalists.

trim the list

To remove or eliminate unnecessary or irrelevant items from a list.

Example

We need to trim the list of potential vendors to only those who meet our criteria and budget.

narrow the field

To reduce the number of competitors or options in a competition or selection process.

Example

After the first round of auditions, we were able to narrow the field to the top ten contestants.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Scale down

downsize

To reduce the size or number of employees, facilities, or operations in a company or organization.

Example

Due to financial difficulties, the company had to downsize its workforce by 20%.

cut back

To reduce the amount or frequency of something, such as expenses, activities, or consumption.

Example

To save money, we decided to cut back on eating out and cook at home more often.

shrink

To become smaller in size, quantity, or value.

Example

The market for luxury goods has shrunk due to the economic downturn and changing consumer preferences.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “scale”

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: narrow down or scale down?

In everyday conversation, narrow down is more common than scale down. This is because we often need to narrow down our options when making decisions, such as choosing a restaurant or a movie. On the other hand, scale down is used less frequently and usually in specific contexts, such as business or manufacturing.

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

Narrow down and scale down are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, scale down may be more appropriate in formal settings, especially when discussing budget cuts or project management.

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

The tone of narrow down and scale down can differ based on context. Narrow down often carries a positive or hopeful tone, as it implies progress towards a decision or solution. In contrast, scale down can have a negative or disappointing tone, as it suggests a reduction or limitation of resources or opportunities.

narrow down & scale down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Narrow down

Synonyms

Antonyms

Scale down

Synonyms

Antonyms