絞り込む

• Reading: しぼりこむ
• Romaji: shiborikomu
• Kanji breakdown: 絞 (kō/shiboru) — to wring, to squeeze; 込 (komu) — inward, into, concentrated
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.bo.ɾi.ko.mɯ/

Meaning

To narrow down; to refine a selection; to focus in on a specific set of options.

A Group 1 (godan) compound verb combining 絞り (wringing, from 絞る) and 込む (inward, concentrated). The physical image is of squeezing or wringing a mass down to its essence. In modern usage, it describes narrowing a large set of options or candidates to a manageable number. Common in data analysis, job searches, research, and decision-making contexts.

Examples

1. 候補者を最終的に三人に絞り込んで面接を行った。 The candidates were narrowed down to three finalists before interviews were held.
2. データを分析して原因をひとつに絞り込むのに時間がかかった。 It took time to analyse the data and narrow the cause down to a single factor.
3. 検索条件を絞り込むことで求める情報にすぐたどり着けた。 By refining the search criteria, she was able to reach the information she needed quickly.

Usage Guide

Context: research, data analysis, decision-making, recruitment, search

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 絞り (the nominal form of 絞る — to wring, to squeeze) and 込む (to push inward, indicating concentration). The combination evokes the action of wringing a large cloth into a concentrated, tighter form.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: General