Cut Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cut
[kʌt ]
Definitions
tool
A cutting implement; a tool for cutting.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cut |
Commonly used when separating or dividing material, often with a sharp tool. Can be physical or metaphorical.
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| knife |
A tool with a handle and a flat, sharp blade, primarily used in the kitchen for cutting, slicing, or chopping food.
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| blade |
Refers specifically to the flat, sharp part of a tool, weapon, or machine that is used for cutting.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- He used a sharp cut to slice the bread.
- The chef carefully made a precise cut with the knife.
action
To make an opening, incision, or wound with a sharp-edged tool.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| slice |
Best used when you need to talk about cutting something into thin, flat pieces, such as bread, fruits, or vegetables.
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| chop |
Perfect when referring to the action of cutting something into small pieces, usually with a repetitive motion and often related to food preparation.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- She cut the paper with scissors.
- The surgeon will cut into the patient's skin.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'cut'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'cut' originated from the Old English word 'cyttan', which means 'to cut'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe the action of dividing or removing something with a sharp tool. The word has evolved over time to have various meanings and uses in different contexts.
See also: cutaway, cutback, cute, cuticle, cutie, cutlass, cutlery, cutlet, cutoff, cutout, cutter, cutters, cutthroat, cutting, cuttings, intercut, offcuts, undercut.