cuts down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cuts down" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of reducing or decreasing something, such as costs, time, or resources. Example: "The new policy cuts down on unnecessary expenses, allowing the company to save more money."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Cuts down on overhead.

The New York Times - Travel

Mr. North cuts down a tree.

The New Yorker

"Cuts down on the fighting, right, April?

The New Yorker

He cuts down on the booze.

The Guardian - Sport

This cuts down on public responsibility.

The Guardian - Money

Advertisers say real-time bidding cuts down on wasted money.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Cut down on fats.

Princeton University

Cut down on salt.

Harvard University

Somebody cut down the tree.

The New Yorker

But cut down on clutter.

The New York Times

Cut down on packaging.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cuts down", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being reduced. For example, specify what expenses are being cut down or what time is being saved.

Common error

While versatile, "cuts down" can sound less professional in formal writing. Consider using more precise synonyms like "reduces" or "decreases" for enhanced clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "cuts down" primarily functions as a verb expressing the act of reducing or decreasing something. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is correct and widely applicable across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cuts down" is a versatile phrasal verb that signifies reduction or decrease. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, from News & Media to Science. While it's suitable for many situations, more formal alternatives like "reduces" or "decreases" may be preferable in professional writing. To enhance clarity, specifying what is being reduced is crucial. Always remember to use more precise synonyms if you need more impact in your writing. With a variety of authoritative sources backing its usage, you can confidently incorporate "cuts down" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduces

This alternative is a more concise and formal synonym, suitable for professional contexts.

decreases

This alternative suggests a gradual diminution, often in quantifiable terms.

lowers

This alternative implies a reduction in level, amount, or intensity.

diminishes

This alternative suggests a gradual fading or lessening.

lessens

This alternative implies a reduction in degree, force, or impact.

curtails

This alternative suggests a restriction or limitation, often abrupt.

trims

This alternative evokes a slight or superficial reduction, like pruning.

abates

This alternative is more formal and suggests a decrease in intensity or severity.

alleviates

This alternative implies a reduction in pain, suffering, or difficulty.

mitigates

This alternative focuses on reducing the severity or impact of something negative.

FAQs

How to use "cuts down" in a sentence?

The phrase "cuts down" is a phrasal verb that means to reduce. For example, "The new policy cuts down on unnecessary expenses." or "Regular exercise cuts down the risk of heart disease."

What can I say instead of "cuts down"?

You can use alternatives like "reduces", "decreases", or "lessens" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "cuts down on"?

Yes, "cuts down on" is a common and correct usage of the phrasal verb. It emphasizes that something is being reduced in amount or degree. For example, "This strategy cuts down on wasted time."

What is the difference between "cuts down" and "eliminates"?

"Cuts down" implies a reduction, while "eliminates" implies a complete removal. Using "eliminates" suggests that something is completely removed, whereas "cuts down" implies a partial decrease.