Skim

To skim means to remove a layer from the surface of a liquid, to read or glance through material quickly while concentrating on main ideas or key points, or to glide along the surface of water. It can also refer to a methodical approach in which less critical details are bypassed to gain a rapid understanding or overview of a subject or document.

Skim meaning with examples

• In the culinary world, chefs often skim the fat from the surface of soups and stews to create a leaner dish. This process enhances flavors and textures, ensuring that the final product is not only healthier but also more palatable. This technique is essential for making broths and sauces that require a clean, rich taste without excessive grease, showcasing the skill involved in professional cooking.
• While preparing for the exam, I decided to skim through my notes instead of reading them word-for-word. By focusing on headings, bullet points, and highlighted texts, I hoped to absorb critical concepts and terms efficiently. This strategy enabled me to get a clearer overview of the material, helping me organize my thoughts and prioritize areas needing further review before the test date.
• The editor instructed her team to skim the manuscript for any grammatical errors and inconsistencies. This involved quickly going through the documents to catch glaring mistakes without getting bogged down by extensive revisions in the initial phases. Their goal was to enhance the manuscript before delving into a more thorough editing process and ensuring a polished final submission.
• In a study conducted at the university, participants were asked to skim digital articles to measure information retention. The results indicated that those who skimmed learned to identify essential details faster than those who read in detail. This suggests that skimming can be an effective study strategy, particularly in an era overloaded with information and limited time for content consumption.
• During the meeting, John presented a slide deck that allowed everyone to skim the main points of the project updates quickly. This approach kept the discussion focused and allowed for efficient time management, ensuring that all relevant aspects of the project were covered without the team getting distracted by minor details. It fostered a collaborative environment where everyone stayed on topic.