cut off light

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cut off light" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of blocking or obstructing light from reaching a certain area. Example: "The thick curtains were drawn to cut off light from the outside, creating a cozy atmosphere in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

They say it would be against the public interest because it would cut off light; it would bring more people to the district than the schools and buses could take care of.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He had announced that he would "cut off of the lights", cut off the funds to KwaZulu-Natal, if they didn't stop the violence.

Independent

Mr. Lemon pressed a button, and just before the lights cut off, bird song issued forth.

The New York Times - Arts

It's saving a phenomenal amount of money, it's decreased crime because burglars love ambient lighting, it's nice to see the night sky and, as someone who lives in a main street that has had its lights cut off, I can get a good night's sleep".

The Guardian

Building on top of the station would cut off the light that the glass was designed to bring into it.

The New York Times - Arts

"I wouldn't want to cut off the light; it's so important to the house," Ms. Mellors said.

The New York Times

George and Spiro and Christine believe that the scaffolding was erected to cut off their light, turning the lobby entrance of their restaurant into a dim, scary portal.

The New Yorker

Such movement takes place on a 24-hour cycle, which can continue even when the plant is cut off from light.

The New York Times

On our way there, we picked our way through piles of rubbish, open sewers and sub-standard shanty homes packed so tightly they cut off the light.

The Guardian - Opinion

Residents had been worried that the tower would cut off their light, and also complained about dust and noise during construction.

The New York Times

The triple-layer film then consists of, on the top, an ordinary blue-sensitive emulsion; below this, a yellow filter to cut off blue light; next below this, an emulsion with a sensitivity peak in the green, with the yellow filter cutting off blue sensitivity; and, finally, an emulsion with a peak sensitivity in the red, a valley in the green, and blue sensitivity cut off by the yellow filter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing architectural designs or construction, use "cut off light" to explain how a structure impacts natural illumination. For example, "The new skyscraper will likely "cut off light" to the adjacent park".

Common error

Avoid using "cut off light" when you mean to reduce light intensity without completely blocking it. Use words like "dim" or "shade" instead to convey a partial reduction of light.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cut off light" functions primarily as a verb phrase followed by a noun, describing the act of blocking or obstructing light. It is used to explain how something prevents light from reaching a certain area or object, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cut off light" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression for describing the blocking or obstruction of light. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic content. Its primary function is descriptive, explaining how light is prevented from reaching a specific area. While a neutral register is the most common, the specific context can range from formal to more accessible tones. For alternative expressions, consider using "block the light" or "obstruct the light".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

block the light

Replaces "cut off" with "block", a more direct synonym, maintaining the core meaning.

obstruct the light

Uses "obstruct" as a synonym for "cut off", emphasizing the hindrance of light passage.

prevent light from entering

Explains the action of "cutting off light" by focusing on preventing its entry.

eliminate the light

Indicates a complete removal of light, a stronger implication than simply blocking it.

shade from light

Focuses on the creation of shade, which is a consequence of cutting off light.

screen the light

Suggests using a screen to block the light.

darken the area

Emphasizes the effect of cutting off light, which is making an area darker.

interrupt the light

Focuses on the interruption of the light's path.

occlude the light

A more formal way of saying "block the light".

extinguish the light

Refers to the action of putting out a light source, rather than blocking existing light.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "cut off light"?

You can use alternatives such as "block the light", "obstruct the light", or "prevent light from entering" depending on the specific context.

Is "cut off light" grammatically correct?

Yes, "cut off light" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase. It accurately describes the action of blocking or obstructing light.

What does it mean to "cut off light"?

To "cut off light" means to block light, preventing it from reaching a particular area or object. This phrase is frequently used in discussions related to construction, design, and environmental impact.

When should I use "cut off light" instead of "reduce light"?

"Cut off light" implies a complete blockage of light, while "reduce light" suggests a partial decrease in intensity. Use "cut off light" when the intention is to completely block the light source.