narrow - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
narrow Word Meanings
- having a small width
- limited in extent or scope
- to make something narrower
narrow Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
narrow Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnærəʊ/
US
/ˈnæroʊ/
narrow Word Etymology
narrow: nar- = compressed, row = line; Old English 'nearow' meaning 'close or tight'; imagine squeezing a balloon until it's narrow.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my hands on the opening and start to push the sides together. The space moves from wide to narrow as the gap changes under my fingers. I keep adjusting my grip and breath, feeling the push and pull tighten the feel. That tiny shift lets me plan what fits, a narrow path I can follow in real use.
Real Context
Narrow describes something with small width, such as a hallway or window, but it also covers limited range or scope, like a narrow margin of error or a narrow job market. As a verb, to narrow means to reduce width, extent, or variety, often by focusing or constraining options. In everyday use, speakers distinguish physical narrowness from figurative narrowing of choices, plans, or perspectives. The word can carry positive connotations (a narrow escape) or negative ones (a narrow path or defeat). Common collocations include narrow gap, narrow passage, and narrow down, plus phrases like narrow-minded which convey a negative trait if misused.
Usage Reminders
- - Use for width and for scope in figurative senses
- - Remember to distinguish the verb form to narrow from the adjective narrow
- - Watch collocations like narrow gap, narrow passage, and narrow down
- - Don’t confuse with small or short in non-physical contexts
- - Be mindful of narrow-minded as a negative trait
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking narrow for small or short in all contexts
- Thinking narrow only describes width, not scope or possibility
- Confusing narrow with close in distance, e. g., 'close' vs 'narrow' in a path
- Using narrow in idioms incorrectly, e. g., narrow escape vs almost escape
- Missing the verb form when talking about reducing width or options
Thinking Differences
English often treats narrow as both physical width and figurative limit, so learners must separate width from scope and remember verbs like narrow down. Typical mistakes include using narrow for 'small' in non-physical senses and confusing narrow-minded with simply being careful.
Learning Tips
- Practice both physical width and figurative uses in sentences
- Learn common collocations like narrow gap and narrow down
- memorize verb form to narrow and related nouns
- Watch for idioms involving width and perspective
- Compare with opposite words like wide, broad, and expansive
- Use a dictionary example to confirm context
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'narrow'?
A.Wide
B.Large
C.Small
D.Thin
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'narrow' used correctly?
A.The street is wide enough for two cars to pass.
B.The field is large enough for a football game.
C.The river is so narrow that only one boat can go through at a time.
D.The hallway is small and cramped.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'narrow'?
A.Broad
B.Thick
C.Steep
D.Shallow
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'narrow'?
A.Wide
B.Tight
C.Short
D.Long
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'narrow'?
A.Describing a small opening in a cave
B.Talking about a spacious room
C.Discussing a wide highway
D.Referring to a broad horizon
Related Listening
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