Differences between narrow down and turn down
Narrow down means to reduce the number of options or choices, while turn down means to reject or refuse an offer or request.
Meanings and Definitions: narrow down vs turn down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Turn down
- 1Reduce volume, temperature, etc..
The room was too hot, so she TURNED the heating DOWN.
- 2Reject an offer, invitation, etc..
They offered her the job, but she TURNED it DOWN.
- 3Fold the top covers of a bed down to make it ready for someone to go to sleep.
The hotel staff TURNED DOWN the bed and scattered flower petals on it while we was having dinner.
Usage Examples: narrow down, turn down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
turn down
Example
Please turn down the music; it's too loud.
Example
She always turns down the heat before going to bed.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Narrow down
eliminate possibilities
To remove or exclude options or choices from consideration.
Example
By analyzing the data, they were able to eliminate possibilities and identify the root cause of the problem.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn down
decline
To politely refuse or reject an offer or invitation.
Example
She had to decline the job offer because it didn't align with her career goals.
To refuse or dismiss an offer or proposal.
Example
The company had to reject the vendor's proposal because it didn't meet their requirements.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- crack down
- argue down
- pass down
- damp down
- swear down
Differences in narrow down vs turn down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: narrow down or turn down?
In daily conversation, people use turn down more often than narrow down. This is because turn down is used in a variety of situations such as declining invitations, job offers, or requests. Narrow down is not used as much, but it's still a common phrase when we need to make decisions and reduce options. So, while both phrases are used, turn down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of narrow down and turn down
Narrow down and turn 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 narrow down and turn down
The tone of narrow down and turn down can differ based on context. Narrow down often carries a focused or determined tone when related to decision-making, while turn down typically has a polite or regretful tone, especially when refusing an offer or invitation.
