as in to cut down
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Recent Examples of Synonyms for whittle (down)
Verb
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The renovation of the high school, which would cut down on congestion and create flexible learning spaces — including a student commons area — also calls for improved lighting, acoustics and ventilation, which studies show can greatly impact student learning, noted Rohlwing.—
Denise Crosby,
Chicago Tribune,
21 Mar. 2025 -
The SpaceX founder is now an adviser to the president and heads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims to cut down on what the administration views as wasteful spending in the federal government.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
Newsweek,
21 Mar. 2025
Verb
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Southwest blamed rising fuel prices, which account for a significant portion of operating expenses, for its decision to cut back offerings.—
Marisa Elrick,
Baltimore Sun,
31 Mar. 2025
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Many other schools have cut back on graduate admissions.—
Ian Bogost,
The Atlantic,
30 Mar. 2025
Verb
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Some potential contenders have also turned down offers for the role, federal health officials said.—
Alexander Tin,
CBS News,
20 Mar. 2025
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He was disappointed to be turned down by Central Saint Martins—the alma mater of Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, and other ambitious British designers.—
Rebecca Mead,
The New Yorker,
17 Mar. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Whittle (down).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whittle%20%28down%29. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.
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