C1noun1K

Filter

UK /["/ˈfɪltə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈfɪltər/"]/

Definition

a device containing paper, sand, chemicals, etc. that a liquid or gas is passed through in order to remove any materials that are not wanted

In simple words: To remove unwanted parts from something.

Examples

  • an **air/oil filter**
  • a **coffee/water filter**
  • **filter paper** for the coffee machine
  • The camera has an anti-glare filter.
  • When you do a search, there are filters for size and brand.
  • **Spam filters** block out almost all threats.
  • The software allows you to apply filters, remove blemishes and add text to your images.
  • a filter lane

Usage notes

Use 'filter' in contexts like photography, manufacturing, or data analysis. It’s appropriate in both everyday and professional settings, but avoid it in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

filter + object

Memory hint

Think of a coffee filter; it lets coffee through but keeps the grounds out.

Collocations

  • filter the water
  • filter out noise
  • apply a filter
  • data filter
  • coffee filter

Synonyms

  • strain
  • purify
  • sift
  • screen
  • remove

Antonyms

  • combine
  • mix

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'sleek' vs 'sleeked'
  • Using 'filtering' without an object
  • Mistaking 'filter' for 'funnel'