Pronunciation: [skˈɪm ðə tˈɒp] (IPA) 
The phrase "skim the top" means to take only the superficial or most important parts of something. The spelling of the word "skim" is /skɪm/, pronounced as "sk-im." The word "top" is spelled as /tɒp/ and pronounced as "t-ah-p", with a short "o" sound. These phonetic transcriptions help to accurately pronounce the word "skim the top", which can aid in clear communication and effective understanding of the phrase's meaning.
The phrase "skim the top" is an idiomatic expression typically used in informal contexts. It refers to a practice where someone quickly or casually looks over or reads only the most important or significant parts of something, without delving deep into the details or nuances. This expression is often used when referring to reading or reviewing written material, such as documents, reports, or articles.
When a person "skims the top" of a text, they are essentially scanning it superficially to get a general idea or overview of its content. This approach allows them to quickly grasp the main points, key arguments, or main themes within the material, without dedicating substantial time or effort. By skimming the text, individuals can save time and still gain a general understanding of the subject matter.
The term "skim the top" can also be used more broadly to describe a similar activity outside of reading. For instance, it may refer to briefly browsing through a website, checking headlines in a newspaper, or quickly reviewing the main points of a presentation. In all these cases, "skimming the top" implies a swift examination or review that prioritizes capturing the essentials rather than thoroughly examining or comprehending every detail.
