cut off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cut off" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has been abruptly stopped or terminated, often without warning. For example, "The meeting was suddenly cut off when the power went out."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cut off.

The New York Times

Their legs cut off.

The New Yorker

Cut off the apron.

The New York Times

"Cut off my feet.

The New Yorker

Their head cut off.

The New Yorker

P.J.: "You're cut off".

Forbes

"Cut off our funding?

Los Angeles Times

The phone cut off.

Los Angeles Times

Cut off the crowns.

WikiHow

Cut off one side.

WikiHow

Cut off all ties.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cut off" to describe the cessation of financial support, ensure the context clearly indicates the reason and expected outcome. For example: "His parents cut him off to encourage him to find a job."

Common error

Avoid using "cut off" when a more nuanced term is appropriate. For instance, instead of saying "The negotiations were cut off", consider alternatives like "The negotiations stalled" or "The negotiations reached an impasse" if a complete termination didn't occur.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "cut off" primarily functions as a verb, indicating the act of severing, stopping, or isolating something. This can refer to physical actions, like cutting something with scissors, or abstract concepts, like ending communication or funding. Ludwig provides many examples of this versatile usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

46%

News & Media

28%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cut off" is a versatile phrasal verb used to indicate the act of severing, stopping, or isolating something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, including Wiki, News & Media, and Formal & Business settings. When writing, be mindful of the scope and ensure the term accurately reflects the intended level of termination or interruption. While widely used, considering nuanced alternatives might enhance clarity and precision in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chop off

A more literal and physical way of saying "cut off", typically referring to removing something with a sharp object.

sever

Indicates a forceful and complete separation.

disconnect

This term emphasizes severing a connection, often in a technological or abstract sense.

interrupt

Focuses on briefly stopping something, especially a conversation or activity.

halt

Suggests a more formal or abrupt cessation.

block

Focuses on preventing access or passage.

terminate

Implies a formal ending, often in contracts or employment.

cease

A more formal way to say stop or end.

suspend

Implies a temporary cessation, with the possibility of resuming later.

bring to an end

A more verbose alternative emphasizing completion or finality.

FAQs

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

You can use "cut off" in various contexts, such as "The phone line was suddenly cut off", "They decided to cut off funding for the project", or "She had to cut off all ties with her former friends".

What is the difference between "cut off" and "isolated"?

"Cut off" implies a severing or abrupt ending of something, while "isolated" means being separated or detached from others.

What are some alternatives to "cut off" when talking about stopping communication?

Alternatives include "disconnect", "cease contact", or "end communication", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "cut off from"?

Yes, it's correct. "Cut off from" means to be isolated or separated from something. For example: "The village was cut off from the rest of the world due to the heavy snowfall."