chop off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chop off" is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually means to cut something off, usually abruptly or sharply. For example, "He chopped off the branch with one powerful swing of the axe".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Chop off the ends of the snap peas on each side.

WikiHow

"They would chop off my hands".

The New Yorker

We will chop off the heads of the Americans, chop off the heads of the French, chop off the heads of whoever you may bring".

Independent

"I chop off my wings!" He made a chopping motion.

The New Yorker

One will chop off the heads of victims.

The New York Times

I remember when the men chop off my hands.

The New Yorker

They chop off the beginnings and endings of words.

The New York Times - Travel

Chop off and discard the ends of the oranges.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Maybe they'll even try to chop off an arm.

The New York Times

I'd probably chop off my own foot or something.

The New Yorker

Otherwise, they told her, they would chop off Franklin's ears, or kill him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "chop off", consider the level of precision and force implied. Choose a more descriptive verb if the cutting action is gentle or highly controlled.

Common error

Avoid using "chop off" in contexts where a gentler or more delicate action is required. Using "cut off" or "trim" may be more appropriate if the action is not forceful or abrupt.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "chop off" functions as a dynamic verb, denoting an action of cutting something away completely and often abruptly. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts. The action typically requires force or a sharp instrument.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chop off" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe the act of cutting something away forcefully and completely. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used across different contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki, although it is generally considered a neutral to informal term. While versatile, consider alternative phrases like "sever" or detach for more precise or formal writing. Avoid using "chop off" in contexts requiring gentler actions, and always be mindful of the implied violence in the term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sever

Focuses on a clean and complete separation.

amputate

Specifically refers to surgical removal.

detach

Implies separating something that was connected.

truncate

Focuses on shortening something by cutting.

lop

Suggests a rough or crude cutting action.

hew off

Implies cutting with force, often using an axe or similar tool.

carve off

Suggests a careful or deliberate cutting action.

trim

Involves removing a small part to neaten or shape something.

snip off

Suggests cutting with scissors or shears.

hack off

Implies a violent and uncontrolled cutting action.

FAQs

How can I use "chop off" in a sentence?

The phrase "chop off" is a phrasal verb that means to cut something off with a sharp blow or series of blows. For example, "The lumberjack had to chop off a large branch that was blocking the road".

What can I say instead of "chop off"?

You can use alternatives like "sever", "detach", or "amputate", depending on the context and the intended level of formality.

Which is correct, "chop off" or "cut off"?

Both "chop off" and "cut off" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Chop off" implies a more forceful, abrupt action, while "cut off" is more general.

What's the difference between "chop off" and "trim"?

"Chop off" implies a significant and forceful removal, whereas "trim" suggests removing a small amount, often for aesthetic purposes. The choice depends on the context and the degree of removal.