Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for whittling (down)
Verb
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While low-income shoppers are cutting back on spending, high earners keep infusing the economy with their cash, fueled by stock and real estate gains.—
Tristan Bove,
Fortune,
12 Jan. 2026 -
Pruning improves air circulation, and cutting back long, leggy, single stems reserves energy for new growth.—
Barbara Gillette,
The Spruce,
9 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Deep into stoppage time, fans vented their spleen at the sight of Dominik Szoboszlai turning down the chance to cross into the box, instead opting to pass sideways to Ibrahima Konate.—
James Pearce,
New York Times,
2 Jan. 2026
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Born in Laurel, Mississippi, on November 29, 1935, Ladd was interested in acting from a young age, even turning down a college scholarship to pursue the craft.—
Alejandra Gularte,
Vulture,
3 Nov. 2025
Verb
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South San Joaquin County Fire Authority However, after knocking down the flames, fire officials say crews found a person dead inside the shop.—
Cecilio Padilla,
CBS News,
5 Jan. 2026
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Luka Dončić had his way against the Hornets’ defense throughout the night, knocking down five 3-pointers in a 38-point performance.—
Shane Connuck,
Charlotte Observer,
10 Nov. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Whittling (down).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whittling%20%28down%29. Accessed 23 Jan. 2026.
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