How to Pronounce "whittle down"
expression
ˈhwɪtəɫ/, /ˈwɪtəɫ/ /ˈdaʊn
WHIT-uhl DOWN
wˈɪtəl/ /dˈaʊn
WIT-uhl DOWN
Definition
To gradually reduce the size, number, or amount of something, usually by removing unnecessary parts or making choices little by little.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈhwɪtəɫ/, /ˈwɪtəɫ/ /ˈdaʊn
British English
wˈɪtəl/ /dˈaʊn
Simplified Pronunciation
US
WHIT-uhl DOWN
UK
WIT-uhl DOWN
Listen in Context
We need to whittle down the list of candidates.
The school tried to whittle down expenses to save money.
They slowly whittled down the options until only two remained.
We're trying to whittle down our stuff before the move.