cut away

USAGE SUMMARY

"cut away" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are describing separating something with a sharp tool (e.g. scissors, knife, razor). For example: "She carefully cut away the frayed edges of her shirt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cut away the collar!

The New York Times

Cut away the kernels.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They had cut away her angelic halo.

The New Yorker

The telecast quickly cut away.

The New York Times

The cameras were forced to cut away.

The Guardian - Opinion

Cut away the top ⅓ of the artichoke.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Now cut away to a week earlier.

The Guardian - Travel

Cut away breasts and set aside.

The New York Times - Food

Cut away the cores from the parsnips.

The New York Times

Cut away cores and fleshy ribs.

The New York Times

CRESSIDA LEYSHON: A cut away to David Cameron.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cut away" in instructions, be specific about what needs to be removed and the desired outcome. For example, "Cut away the damaged portion of the fruit to prevent it from spoiling."

Common error

Avoid using "cut away" interchangeably with phrases like "cut off" or "cut out" if the context requires a more nuanced meaning of removing something gradually or carefully. "Cut off" implies a complete separation, while "cut out" suggests removing a shape or section.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "cut away" functions primarily as a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object. It describes the action of removing something by cutting. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples showing its application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "cut away" is a common and versatile term used to describe the removal of something by cutting. Ludwig AI supports this assessment, providing numerous real-world examples from news sources and how-to guides, showcasing its wide applicability. The phrase is grammatically correct and used in a neutral register, suitable for various contexts. While alternatives like "trim off" or "detach" exist, "cut away" specifically emphasizes the action of cutting something off or out. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about what is being removed and the desired outcome. In summary, "cut away" is a valuable addition to your vocabulary, offering a precise way to describe the act of cutting something away from a larger whole.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chop off

Implies a more forceful or abrupt removal by cutting.

trim off

Suggests a neat and precise removal, often to improve appearance.

slice off

Involves removing something with a thin, sharp cut.

lop off

Indicates a rough or heavy cutting action.

sever

Implies a complete and often forceful separation.

detach

Means to separate or unfasten something.

remove

A general term for taking something away.

excise

Suggests surgically removing something.

amputate

Refers to surgically removing a limb or part of the body.

pare away

Involves carefully and gradually removing the outer layer.

FAQs

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

You can use "cut away" to describe the act of removing something by cutting, such as "The surgeon had to cut away the damaged tissue" or "Cut away any excess fabric after sewing".

What are some alternatives to saying "cut away"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "trim off", "slice off", or "detach" to convey a similar meaning.

When should I use "cut away" versus "cut off"?

"Cut away" implies a gradual or careful removal, while "cut off" suggests a complete and often abrupt separation. Use "cut away" when precision is important and "cut off" when you want to indicate a clean break.

Is it correct to say "cut away at" instead of "cut away"?

While "cut away" typically implies a single, defined action, "cut away at" suggests repeatedly cutting something, often bit by bit. For instance, "He cut away at the branch until it fell" indicates a more prolonged action than "He cut away the branch."