to-separate-the-wheat-from-the-chaff
/tuː ˈsep.ə.reɪt ðə wiːt frəm ðə tʃɑːf/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
To separate the useful, valuable, or good people or things from the useless or bad ones. It is often used when judging quality, talent, or truth.
- The exam helps separate the wheat from the chaff.
- Good editors separate the wheat from the chaff quickly.
- This test separates the wheat from the chaff.
Adinary Nuance
This idiom is stronger and more vivid than words like "sort" or "choose." Use it when you mean careful judgment, especially when good and bad are mixed together. It often sounds more formal or written than everyday speech. People use it for exam results, hiring, reviews, and truth from lies.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- phân biệt tốt xấu
- Spanish
- separar lo bueno de lo malo
- Chinese
- 去芜存菁
- Japanese
- 良し悪しを見分ける
- Korean
- 좋고 나쁜 것을 가리다
Etymology
This phrase comes from farming. Wheat is the useful grain, and chaff is the light outer husk that is thrown away. The image became a common English idiom in the 1600s.
Common phrases
separate the wheat from the chaffhelp separate the wheat from the chaffability to separate the wheat from the chaff
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is "separate the wheat from the chaff" formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal and common in writing, speeches, and discussion.
- What is the difference between this idiom and "sort out"?
- "Sort out" is broader. This idiom means choosing the best or most useful from a mixed group.
- Can I use this idiom for people?
- Yes. It is often used for people, especially in hiring, sports, or competition.
- Does it sound natural in everyday English?
- Yes, but it sounds a little thoughtful or serious, not casual.