whittle down

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If you have a highly concentrated stock allocation with large built-up gains, you can gradually whittle down your position and use the $6,000 deduction to minimize or cancel the tax hit, Adams says.

From Barron's • Apr. 25, 2026

That hasn’t deterred the U.S., which has been flying more than 10 MQ-9 orbits over Iran at a time as the American commanders push to stop Tehran’s ballistic-missile launches and whittle down other offensive capabilities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

In September, Tory MPs will whittle down the number of candidates from six to four, who will then make their pitch to members at the party's conference in Birmingham.

From BBC • Aug. 2, 2024

And yet, Nike somehow managed to whittle down one of those offerings for female track and field athletes competing at the upcoming summer 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

From Salon • Apr. 22, 2024

Maybe it’s time to whittle down the “people I’m avoiding” list.

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon