cut a dash

USAGE SUMMARY

"cut a dash" is a phrase used in written English, and it is used to describe someone who is especially stylish or fashionable.
For example, "She cut a dash at the party in her new dress and heels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Cut a dash with one of these wonderful skirts.

Independent

Why should we, too, not cut a dash overseas?

The Guardian - Opinion

This puss does not need boots to cut a dash.

The Guardian - Books

Both are populists who cut a dash on the talk-show circuit.

The Economist

How to cut a dash on the dance floor… Make use of rodents and invertebrates.

Independent

The foreign minister, Radek Sikorski, will cut a dash on the world stage.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

He cut a dashing, highly eccentric figure.

The New York Times - Arts

In a city where appearances are paramount, Phil Mickelson cut a dashing figure on arrival Wednesday.

The New York Times - Sports

But she does cut a dashing figure in her silver Spandex action suit.

The New York Times

Zouaves cut a dashing figure on the parade ground, but the uniform seemed a magnet for bullets on the battlefield.

The New York Times

(Later, Mayor writes, she "cut a dashing figure in her signature trousers, at once shocking and fabulous, which also fueled her Amazonian image").

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cut a dash" to describe someone whose appearance or behavior is stylish and attracts positive attention. It implies a certain flair and confidence.

Common error

Avoid using "cut a dash" in negative contexts. The phrase generally implies a positive or admirable impression, not a negative or scandalous one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cut a dash" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It describes the action of making a striking or stylish impression, often through appearance or behavior. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests a conspicuous and often positive effect.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Reference

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "cut a dash" describes the act of making a stylish or impressive appearance. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is indeed used in written English to describe someone stylish or fashionable. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral register. While grammatically correct and generally used in a positive sense, consider the connotation and context to ensure appropriate application. Alternatives include "make a splash" or "turn heads".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

turn heads

Emphasizes causing people to look at someone with admiration or surprise.

make a splash

Focuses on creating a noticeable impact, often suggesting excitement or attention.

make a statement

Suggests conveying a clear message through one's appearance or actions.

make an impression

Emphasizes leaving a lasting effect on someone's mind or feelings.

look stylish

Specifically refers to having a fashionable appearance.

stand out

Highlights being distinctly different and noticeable from others.

look impressive

Focuses on creating a sense of awe or admiration through one's appearance.

attract attention

Directly focuses on drawing people's gaze or interest.

be noticed

Simply means to be seen or observed, without necessarily implying admiration.

be flamboyant

Suggests being extravagant and attention-seeking in one's style.

FAQs

How can I use "cut a dash" in a sentence?

You can use "cut a dash" to describe someone who makes a striking impression due to their stylish appearance or confident behavior. For example: "He "cut a dash" at the gala in his tailored suit."

What does it mean to "cut a dash"?

"Cut a dash" means to make a striking or stylish impression; to be noticeably elegant or fashionable.

What are some alternatives to "cut a dash"?

Alternatives to "cut a dash" include "make a splash", "make an impression", or "turn heads".

Is "cut a dash" formal or informal?

"Cut a dash" is generally considered an idiomatic phrase suitable for both neutral and informal contexts, though less common in highly formal or academic writing.