Filtering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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filtering

[ˈfɪltərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

data processing

The process of selecting or excluding certain data based on specific criteria.

Synonyms

screening, selecting, sorting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
filtering

Used when removing unwanted parts or items from a larger set, often progressively or through a specific medium. Common in technical or processes contexts.

  • She spent the afternoon filtering emails to find the most important ones
  • The water filtering system ensures clean drinking water
screening

Used when evaluating or examining a large number of items or people to identify those that meet certain criteria. Often applies in health, employment, and security contexts.

  • The company is screening candidates for the new job openings
  • They are screening passengers' luggage at the airport for security reasons
sorting

Used when arranging items in a specific order, typically by category, size, or another attribute. Common in organizing and data management contexts.

  • He is sorting the files alphabetically
  • The recycling center is sorting materials into different bins
selecting

Used when making a deliberate choice from a number of options, often implying careful consideration.

  • She is selecting the best photos for the album
  • The committee is selecting the finalists for the award

Examples of usage

  • Filtering is essential for analyzing large datasets.
  • The filtering function helps to refine search results.
  • Effective filtering can improve data accuracy.
  • Many software programs offer advanced filtering options.
  • Users can customize the filtering settings to suit their needs.
Context #2 | Verb

data processing

The act of selecting or excluding certain data based on specific criteria.

Synonyms

screen, select, sort.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
filtering

Use 'filtering' when you need to remove unwanted items or information from a set. It's commonly used in data management, water purification, and other processes where separation is required.

  • The software's filtering function helps to sort emails into different folders.
  • Filtering the water ensures it's safe to drink.
screen

'Screen' is appropriate when you need to examine or test a group of items to determine which ones meet certain criteria. It's often used in medical, employment, or security contexts.

  • The company will screen all job applicants before the interview.
  • Airports screen passengers for prohibited items.
sort

'Sort' is used when you need to arrange items in a particular order, such as alphabetically, numerically, or by category. It is common in data organization and management.

  • She needs to sort the documents by date.
  • The app allows you to sort your photos by location.
select

'Select' is used when you need to choose specific items from a group based on certain preferences or requirements. It often implies a careful choice.

  • You can select your favorite team to support.
  • Students are selected for scholarships based on their academic performance.

Examples of usage

  • This software allows users to filter data easily.
  • Filtering out irrelevant information can save time.
  • She filtered the results to focus on key metrics.
  • The system automatically filters spam emails.
  • Users can filter the data according to their preferences.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Filtering is crucial in water purification to remove impurities and make water safe for drinking.
  • In biology, cells filter nutrients and waste through their membranes to maintain cellular health.
  • Air filters in HVAC systems improve air quality by trapping dust, pollen, and other allergens.

Technology

  • Social media platforms use filtering algorithms to show users posts they are more likely to engage with, prioritizing relevant content.
  • Email services filter spam messages to keep your inbox organized and free from unwanted emails.
  • Search engines apply filtering techniques to deliver the most relevant results based on user queries.

Psychology

  • In psychology, filtering is a cognitive distortion where a person focuses only on the negative aspects of a situation.
  • It can impact decision-making, as filtered information might lead to biased judgments.
  • Therapeutic techniques often encourage individuals to recognize and adjust these filtering habits for more balanced thinking.

Media and Arts

  • In photography, filters can change how images look, highlighting colors or reducing glare.
  • Musicians filter sound to create effects, enhancing the listening experience through audio engineering.
  • Graphic designers use digital filters to manipulate images, creating unique artistic styles.

Origin of 'filtering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle French word 'filtre,' which means to strain or sift.
  • Originally, 'filter' was used mainly in reference to materials that strained liquids in the 14th century.
  • In the 19th century, filtering began to be applied to various sciences, including chemistry and biology.

The word 'filtering' originated from the Old English word 'fyltrowian', meaning to filter. The concept of filtering has been used throughout history in various contexts, such as in alchemy and chemistry for purification purposes. In the modern digital age, filtering plays a crucial role in data processing and information retrieval, helping users to refine and extract relevant data efficiently.


See also: filter, filters, filtrate, filtration.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,070 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.