WINNOW DOWN Meaning and
Definition
-
To "winnow down" is a phrasal verb used to describe the process of systematically reducing or narrowing down a large number of options, choices, or possibilities to a smaller, more manageable selection. The term "winnow" originally comes from the agricultural practice of separating wheat from chaff, by tossing it into the air and allowing the wind to blow away the lighter husks while the heavier grains fall back down.
In a figurative sense, "winnow down" is employed when there is a need to eliminate or sift through a multitude of alternatives in order to streamline or focus on the most relevant or important ones. It implies a deliberate and careful selection process driven by preference, suitability, or necessity.
When applied to decision-making contexts, "winnow down" often indicates a series of steps or actions taken to progressively refine an initial set of choices. This can involve comparing and contrasting different possibilities, evaluating their pros and cons, eliminating options that do not meet specific criteria or standards, and ultimately arriving at a smaller, more manageable set of options to consider further.
The process of "winnowing down" allows individuals or groups to prioritize, save time, and make more informed decisions by discarding less important or irrelevant choices. It is a useful approach in situations where there is an overwhelming number of options or when one wants to focus attention and resources on the most promising or relevant alternatives.
Common Misspellings for WINNOW DOWN
- qinnow down
- ainnow down
- sinnow down
- einnow down
- 3innow down
- 2innow down
- wunnow down
- wjnnow down
- wknnow down
- wonnow down
- w9nnow down
- w8nnow down
- wibnow down
- wimnow down
- wijnow down
- wihnow down
- winbow down
- winmow down
- winjow down
- winhow down
Etymology of WINNOW DOWN
The word "winnow down" is a phrasal verb that combines two separate words: "winnow" and "down".
The term "winnow" derives from the Old English word "windwian", which means "to separate grain from chaff by fanning". In the context of farming, winnowing involves throwing mixture of grain and chaff into the air and letting the wind blow away the lighter chaff, while the heavier grain falls back down.
The word "down" comes from Old English as well and simply means "from a higher to a lower position". It is often used to indicate reducing or decreasing something.
When combined, "winnow down" distinguishes the process of separating or narrowing down a larger group or set of options to a smaller, more refined selection. It carries the idea of eliminating unnecessary or less valuable elements, just as winnowing separates the desired grain from the unwanted chaff.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
