sift
word
Definition
To separate something by passing it through a sieve, often used for flour or other powders; also, to carefully examine and sort through things, such as information or evidence.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and somewhat technical; literal sense used in cooking (e.g., 'sift flour'), figurative sense for examining or sorting large amounts of material (e.g., 'sift through evidence'). Avoid using 'sift' for people or living things.
Example Sentences
Please sift the flour before you bake the cake.
basic
She carefully sifted the sand to find small shells.
basic
I need to sift through these papers to find the right form.
basic
Detectives had to sift through hundreds of emails for clues.
natural
It took hours to sift the facts from all the rumors.
natural
If you sift flour, your cake will be lighter and fluffier.
natural