narrows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrows" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a reduction in width, scope, or focus, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "As the discussion progressed, the topic narrows to the key issues at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the new research narrows the future range to between 9.6bn and 12.3bn by 2100.

The Guardian

This result narrows the gap between Norwich and Forest to just one point.

The Guardian - Sport

One of the most popular crossings remains Anzalduas Park, in Mission, Texas, a favourite weekend barbecue spot for local families where the Rio Grande curves and narrows – and crossing on a raft or boat takes a matter of seconds.

The Guardian

Further upstream, Eco Trails offers a different view of the river, starting in the town of Odemira and following the river as it narrows, spotting numerous species of bird in the bankside reeds (three-five hours from €15pp, 5-15-year-olds half-price).

The Guardian - Travel

ON THE principle that travel narrows the mind, Bagehot seldom strays too far from his regular orbit: Pall Mall, St James's, sometimes even the House of Commons.

The Economist

Geneva is a lower-lying city than Lausanne and, to make matters worse, the lake narrows here, funnelling water to the point where the Rhône becomes a recognisable river again.

The Economist

Top of the list is more liberalisation of labour rules for permanent workers, so that the gap between them and (younger) temporary ones narrows.

The Economist

Nor should it have come as a surprise.What point is there in breaking the United Kingdom into smaller bits unless the parliament of each new bit narrows its focus?

The Economist

But as the gap narrows, or even turns negative, they lose their enthusiasm for lending.

The Economist

Once the refi rate is cut to 1%, the deposit rate will go to zero unless the ECB narrows the gap.

The Economist

Even if the Court narrows the scope of honest-services fraud when it issues its ruling, probably next year, that may only lead to reduced sentences or perhaps retrials for the two supplicants.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "narrows", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being reduced or limited. For example, "The road narrows" or "The focus narrows."

Common error

Avoid using "narrows" when you intend to convey a complete elimination rather than a reduction. "Eliminates" or "removes" might be more appropriate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "narrows" is as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense of "narrow." It indicates an action of becoming or making something narrower. Ludwig AI highlights the flexibility in its use, describing both physical spaces and abstract concepts like focus or scope.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "narrows" is primarily used as a verb to indicate a reduction in size, scope, or distance, as Ludwig AI confirms. Grammatically sound and frequently employed, especially in news and media, its usage spans from describing physical spaces to abstract concepts. While generally neutral in register, context is crucial for accurate interpretation. When writing, ensure the intended reduction is clear and consider alternatives like "reduces" or "limits" for nuanced meanings. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becomes narrower

Emphasizes the process of becoming less wide or extensive.

reduces in scope

Focuses on a decrease in the range or extent of something.

converges

Highlights the coming together or closing of a gap.

limits

Stresses the act of setting boundaries or restrictions.

contracts

Implies a shrinking or becoming smaller in size or extent.

restricts

Suggests a more forceful imposition of limits.

tapers

Describes a gradual reduction in width or thickness.

diminishes

Indicates a gradual decrease or reduction.

becomes limited

Focuses on the state of being restricted or confined.

closes

Highlights the act of shutting or bringing things closer together, often referring to a gap or distance.

FAQs

How can I use "narrows" in a sentence?

"Narrows" can be used to describe a reduction in width, scope, or focus. For example, "The river narrows as it approaches the mountains" or "The investigation narrows its focus to the primary suspect."

What are some alternatives to the word "narrows"?

Alternatives to "narrows" include "reduces", "limits", "constricts", or "converges" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the gap narrows"?

Yes, it is correct. "The gap narrows" is a common expression used to describe a situation where the difference between two things is decreasing. For example, "The gap between rich and poor narrows."

What's the difference between "narrows" and "restricts"?

"Narrows" generally implies a reduction in size or scope, while "restricts" suggests imposing limitations or boundaries. "Narrows" can be about physical or abstract things, where "restricts" mostly abstract concepts.