In NLP, moving up the ladder of abstraction is a fundamental skill with profound applications. While “chunking down” (getting more specific, like the Meta Model) helps clarify information, “chunking up” does the opposite. By asking questions like, “What is this an example of?” or “For what purpose?” we move to broader, more inclusive categories of meaning.
This process of generalization is the engine of the Milton Model. Abstract language functions as a set of linguistic containers; because the speaker removes the specific details, the listener’s unconscious mind fills the container with their own personal meaning. A directive to “access a powerful resource” is effective precisely because the client’s mind finds the specific resource that is most relevant to them. The result is agreement, rapport, and a bypass of the critical, conscious mind.
The Strategic Power of Chunking Up #
Moving to a higher level of abstraction is a key tool for influence, leadership, and change. It allows you to shift perspective from the “how” to the “why.”
To Inspire Vision and Motivation: Leaders use abstract language to connect daily tasks to a larger purpose. This engages our core values and identity. The statement, “We need to hit our Q4 sales targets for the XT-1000 model,” is a specific task. By chunking up to, “We are building the future of communication,” the task is reframed as part of a meaningful mission, which is far more motivating.
To Gain Agreement and Reframe Conflict: When people are stuck in disagreement over details (the “what” or “how”), chunking up helps find a shared intention (the “why”). If two departments are fighting over a budget, a mediator might ask, “For what purpose do we both need this budget?” The answer—perhaps “excellent customer service” or “sustainable company growth”—creates a higher frame of agreement. From this shared value, new, more collaborative solutions can be explored.
To Build Rapport by Pacing: People process information at different levels of abstraction. Some are “big picture” thinkers who prefer concepts and summaries, while others are “detail-oriented” and focus on specifics. Matching someone’s level of abstraction is a powerful form of verbal pacing. It communicates that you understand their model of the world and value the way they think, creating a deep sense of connection.
To Facilitate Change and Induce Trance: In therapeutic contexts, chunking up is used to create space for new possibilities. Abstract words like “learnings,” “change,” “comfort,” and “solutions” are artfully vague. They gently invite the unconscious mind to search for its own examples without the resistance or limitations of the conscious mind. This allows clients to access their own internal resources for healing and growth.
Comparison #
Compare this movement with chunk down, and lateral chunking.