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Cut: meaning, definitions and examples

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cut

 

[kʌt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

tool

A cutting implement; a tool for cutting.

Synonyms

blade, knife, scissors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cut

Commonly used when separating or dividing material, often with a sharp tool. Can be physical or metaphorical.

  • She used a knife to cut the apples into slices.
  • They had to cut the budget for the project.
knife

A tool with a handle and a flat, sharp blade, primarily used in the kitchen for cutting, slicing, or chopping food.

  • She used a knife to chop the onions.
  • He always carries a pocket knife for emergencies.
blade

Refers specifically to the flat, sharp part of a tool, weapon, or machine that is used for cutting.

  • The blade of the knife was very sharp.
  • He replaced the blade of his lawnmower.
scissors

A cutting instrument consisting of a pair of metal blades that are joined in the middle and used for cutting various materials, especially paper, fabric, or hair.

  • She picked up the scissors to cut out a piece of fabric.
  • He handed me the scissors to trim the edges of the paper.

Examples of usage

  • He used a sharp cut to slice the bread.
  • The chef carefully made a precise cut with the knife.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To make an opening, incision, or wound with a sharp-edged tool.

Synonyms

carve, chop, slice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cut

Use it for a general action of dividing something with a sharp tool, like when you're cutting paper or fabric.

  • She cut the paper into small pieces.
  • Can you cut this fabric for me?
slice

Best used when you need to talk about cutting something into thin, flat pieces, such as bread, fruits, or vegetables.

  • She sliced the bread for sandwiches.
  • Can you slice the tomatoes thinly?
chop

Perfect when referring to the action of cutting something into small pieces, usually with a repetitive motion and often related to food preparation.

  • He chopped the onions for the salad.
  • Can you chop the carrots into small pieces?
carve

This is often used when talking about sculpting or creating shapes out of material like wood or stone, or when slicing meats, especially during holidays.

  • He carved a wooden bear out of a block of wood.
  • She carved the turkey for Thanksgiving dinner.

Examples of usage

  • She cut the paper with scissors.
  • The surgeon will cut into the patient's skin.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'cut' comes from Old English 'cytan', which means to divide or sever.
  • In early languages, similar words were used in various cultures to describe the action of dividing or slicing.
  • The meaning of 'cut' has evolved over time, expanding from simple physical actions to metaphorical uses.

Culture

  • In theater, a 'cut' refers to a change from one scene to another or the editing down of material.
  • In many cultures, ceremonial cuts have significant meanings, like a first haircut symbolizing growth and maturity.
  • The term is often used in culinary arts to describe different methods of preparing food, such as cuts of meat.

Science

  • Cutting is a pivotal technique in biology, widely used for tissue sampling in genetic research.
  • In physics, a 'cut' can describe how light interacts with surfaces, impacting fields like optics.
  • In genetics, 'cutting' refers to the process of editing DNA molecules to study gene functions.

Psychology

  • The concept of cutting can also refer to emotional experiences, such as cutting ties with negative influences.
  • Research indicates that metaphorical 'cuts', like cutting off toxic relationships, can significantly improve mental health.
  • The brain processes the act of cutting as both a physical and emotional action, linking it to personal boundaries.

Art

  • In visual arts, artists may 'cut' materials together to create mixed-media works or collages, showcasing diverse methods.
  • Cut paper art, or kirigami, involves intricate cuts leading to delicate designs and has its roots in Japanese craftsmanship.
  • In film editing, a 'cut' refers to a transition, essential for constructing a narrative, influencing the audience's emotions.

Translations

Translations of the word "cut" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cortar

🇮🇳 काटना

🇩🇪 schneiden

🇮🇩 memotong

🇺🇦 різати

🇵🇱 ciąć

🇯🇵 切る (きる)

🇫🇷 couper

🇪🇸 cortar

🇹🇷 kesmek

🇰🇷 자르다

🇸🇦 قطع

🇨🇿 řezat

🇸🇰 rezať

🇨🇳 剪

🇸🇮 rezati

🇮🇸 skera

🇰🇿 кесу

🇬🇪 გაჭრა

🇦🇿 kəsmək

🇲🇽 cortar

Word Frequency Rank

At #639 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.