Often implies careful, controlled removal to avoid damaging the rest.

Precision Required

Implies a physical cutting motion, not suitable for abstract contexts.

Physical Action

The action creates a noticeable difference in the object's appearance.

Used metaphorically to describe incremental reduction over time.

Implies a structured, often strategic approach to reduction.

Stresses that the altered direction in sport was not planned.

The term is often associated with sports like golf and tennis.

The context implies a need for skill, which is compromised when this happens.