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narrow

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈnæroʊ/

KK: /ˈnɛro/

adjective
Definition

Having a small width or limited space, especially when compared to its length.


Example

The narrow street made it difficult for cars to pass each other.


Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: narrower

Superlative: narrowest


Conversation
Sloth A
I noticed that the path through the park is quite narrow these days.
Sloth B
Yeah, I almost tripped over a tree root there yesterday.
Sloth A
It's hard to walk when it's so narrow and crowded.
Sloth B
Definitely! They should widen it a bit for safety.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
slim
tight
restricted
Antonyms
wide
broad
expansive
intransitive verb
Definition

To become less wide or to decrease in width.


Example

The road began to narrow as we approached the mountains.


Tense Forms

Past: narrowed

Past Participle: narrowed


Conversation
Sloth A
I feel like the road is starting to narrow as we drive further in.
Sloth B
Yeah, it definitely looks less wide now.
Sloth A
I hope it doesn’t get too narrow or we might have trouble passing other cars.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A small or limited width area, often referring to a passage or body of water that is not wide.


Example

The boat sailed through the narrow between the two islands.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that narrow bridge we crossed yesterday?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was a bit scary!
Sloth A
I can't believe how a narrow passage like that can connect two big towns.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make something less wide or to limit its extent.


Example

She decided to narrow the focus of her research to just one topic.


Tense Forms

Past: narrowed

Past Participle: narrowed


Conversation
Sloth A
I think we should narrow down our options for the trip.
Sloth B
That sounds like a good idea, but how do you want to do that?
Sloth A
Maybe we can narrow it to just three destinations and vote on them.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Narrow → The word originates from Old English 'nearwe', meaning tight or constricted. It describes something that is limited in width or extent.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'tight' or 'constricted' — that's why narrow means limited in width.

Visually Confused Words
arrow
unnarrow
yarrow
tarrow
marrow
harrow
farrow
carrow
Is this page helpful?
True! Let's just take it slow and be careful.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
shrink
contract
diminish
Antonyms
expand
widen
broaden
Right? It made the drive feel more adventurous!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
strait
channel
passage
Antonyms
broad
expanse
width
Perfect! That way, it'll be easier to decide where to go.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
restrict
limit
constrict
Antonyms
expand
broaden
widen