filter out

filter out

1. To use a filtration device or system to remove something from something else. A noun or pronoun can be used between "filter" and "out." These noise-canceling headphones were great at filtering all the background noise out during my flight to New York. We can use this machine to filter out anything that might pollute the water sample. As the machine brews the coffee, it's also supposed to filter out the grounds. You did put a filter in, right?

2. To keep something from being known or experienced. A noun or pronoun can be used between "filter" and "out." Your job is to scan the user forum and filter out any offensive posts. You can't just filter negative feedback out from the "Reviews" page. Customers deserve to see the whole picture! Can I filter out curse words? I want my kids to be able to play this game.

See also: filter, out

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

filter out

v.

To prevent something from passing through, being communicated, or being perceived: My new glasses filter out ultraviolet rays. These headphones filter unwanted noise out.

See also: filter, out

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs. Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.