1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To reduce a list of options or candidates to a smaller number through a process of elimination.
"We have whittled the applicants down to just five candidates for the final interview."
separable
whittle down
B2 neutral separable transitive
To reduce a number, list, or quantity gradually until it reaches a smaller, more manageable size.
In plain English
To slowly make a big list or number smaller until it's a good size.
What does "whittle down" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To reduce a quantity, such as debt or a deficit, gradually over time.
"By making small extra payments each month, she slowly whittled down her student loan."
separable
3 B1 neutral
To carve a piece of wood down to a smaller or more pointed shape.
"He whittled the branch down to a sharp point to make a stake."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To carve a piece of wood progressively smaller by shaving off pieces, working downward.
Actually means
To slowly make a big list or number smaller until it's a good size.
Usage tip
Very commonly used with 'list', 'number', 'options', 'candidates', and 'debt'. Implies a deliberate process with a target. Found in both everyday speech and formal writing.
Words that pair with "whittle down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
list options candidates debt number shortlist
How to conjugate "whittle down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
whittle down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
whittles down
he/she/it
Past simple
whittled down
yesterday
Past participle
whittled down
have + pp
-ing form
whittling down
continuous
Hear "whittle down" in the wild
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Other ways to say "whittle down"
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