narrow
When used as an adjective, "narrow" often describes physical space, but it can also describe a person's mindset (e.g., "narrow-minded"), meaning they are not open to new ideas. As a verb, "narrow" is frequently paired with the word "down" (as in "narrow down") when you are reducing a large number of options to a smaller, more manageable amount.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, Maya is trying to coordinate a group dinner while Ryan is gaming.
Maya
Can you narrow the guest list down? This place is tiny.
Ryan
Bet. I'll tell Leo to bail.
💡
Maya uses 'narrow' as a transitive verb meaning to restrict the number of people. Ryan responds with 'bet' (slang for 'okay/I agree') and 'bail' (slang for canceling plans), reflecting his casual, oblivious demeanor compared to Maya's organized approach.
Meanings
adjective
Of small width in proportion to length.
"The car struggled to fit through the narrow alleyway."
adjective
Limited in extent, amount, or scope; not wide-ranging.
"He has a very narrow range of interests."