narrow list

USAGE SUMMARY

"narrow list" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a group of items that have been reduced in number or narrowed down. For example, "We narrowed our list of candidates down to three finalists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

And 19 states restrict parity to a narrow list of mental illnesses.

The New York Times

"If they have a broad list of targets, they will have a narrow list of allies.

The New York Times

Turning to the working of the court, Mr. Kabbah called for a "narrow" list of those to be charged from the Revolutionary United Front, possibly in the dozens.

The New York Times

Mr. Bush's political genius has always been in defining a narrow list of issues he supports and then sticking to his message.

The New York Times

While Surf Air may be the first to adopt an all-you-can-fly fee structure on small aircraft on a narrow list of routes, others have tried elements of this model with limited success.

The New York Times

When Texas lawmakers were writing one of the nation's most restrictive voter-identification laws last spring, they rejected a proposal to allow voters to use other forms of ID beyond a narrow list.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

If users could search using more than one tag, that would help people to narrow lists down to what they really want.

The Guardian - Tech

However, national implementation measures defining operational oversight and Australia Group Guidelines governing exports rely on narrow lists of organisms, toxins, and associated experiments (15).

Science Magazine

The OECD in 2000 compiled a narrower list of 35 tax havens.

The Economist

Peter-Michael Haeberer, who runs the Berlin police, has been testing that profile against a narrowing list of suspects.

The New Yorker

Shoppers also can click on mylucky versions of Web sites like Macy's, only with a narrower list of merchandise organized by Lucky editors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "narrow list", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the list is being narrowed down from. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "narrow list" when referring to a comprehensive or exhaustive collection. This phrase implies a deliberate selection or reduction, not an overview.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrow list" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by an adjective, indicating a specific type of list that has been reduced or limited in scope. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "narrow list" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a selection or set that has been intentionally reduced or limited. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sees frequent use across diverse sources like news media, scientific publications, and business communications. While the phrase is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, clarity is key: ensure the context clearly establishes the original set from which the "narrow list" was derived. Alternatives like "limited selection", "restricted inventory", and "finite set" offer similar meanings, but their appropriateness depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited selection

Focuses on the aspect of choice being restricted.

restricted inventory

Emphasizes the limited availability of items.

finite set

Highlights the defined and limited nature of the group.

concise compilation

Suggests a list that is both brief and carefully assembled.

shortened roster

Implies a reduction in the number of members or items.

select group

Highlights the exclusivity and chosen nature of the items.

curtailed inventory

Focuses on the act of reducing the stock or items available.

reduced assortment

Emphasizes that the variety has been diminished.

trimmed catalog

Indicates a catalog that has been made smaller and more focused.

abridged compendium

Implies a comprehensive collection that has been shortened.

FAQs

How can I use "narrow list" in a sentence?

You can use "narrow list" to describe a selection that has been intentionally reduced. For example, "The committee presented a "narrow list" of candidates for the position".

What's a good alternative to "narrow list"?

Alternatives include "limited selection", "restricted inventory", or "finite set", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "narrow list" or "short list"?

Both "narrow list" and "short list" are acceptable, but "short list" often implies a final selection stage, while "narrow list" simply suggests a reduction in size.

Can "narrow list" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "narrow list" is appropriate for formal writing, as demonstrated by its usage in news articles and academic papers.