Synonyms for

Narrowing

Verb / ˈnerəʊɪŋ / Another word for narrowing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Making something smaller or more limited.

Synonyms & similar words

tapering contract tapered pindown pegdown constringe diversify specify specialize constrictive widening constricting specialise narrowdown widen constrict naildown narrow constricting compressing reducing tightening concentrating shrinking contracting limiting diminishing lessening modifying adjusting refining focusing streamlining editing paring curtailing shortening

Synonyms by register

Formal

contracting reducing diminishing constricting

Informal

squeezing tightening shrinking

Literary

constricting abating waning

Antonyms

widening broadening expanding enlarging increasing amplifying

Common collocations

  • narrowing the gap
  • narrowing down
  • narrowing the focus
  • narrowing the field
  • narrowing the options
  • narrowing the scope
  • narrowing the search

Word family

noun narrowness
verb narrow
adjective narrow

Usage note

Often used to describe a decrease in size, scope, or options. 'Narrowing down' is a common phrasal verb meaning to reduce a set of possibilities.

Example sentences

  1. The narrowing of the path made it hard for us to walk side by side.
  2. The narrowing of the gap between the two teams made the game more exciting.
  3. The narrowing of the options made it difficult to make a decision.
  4. The narrowing of the river as it flowed through the rocks created rapids.
  5. The narrowing of her focus helped her to complete the task more quickly.

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