What is another word for skimmed off the top?
Pronunciation: [skˈɪmd ˈɒf ðə tˈɒp] (IPA) 
The phrase "skimmed off the top" is often used to refer to the process of taking the best or most profitable part of something. There are many different synonyms for this phrase, depending on the context in which it is used. Some common options include "cream of the crop," "cherry-picked," "picked over," "sifted through," "selected," and "culled." Each of these terms conveys a slightly different meaning, but they all imply a process of separating the best from the rest. Whether you are talking about money, resources, or opportunities, using one of these synonyms can help you communicate the idea of taking the most valuable portion.
