cuts off

USAGE SUMMARY

'cuts off' is a grammatically correct phrase that is commonly used in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of abruptly stopping or interrupting something or someone. Example: The teacher cut off the student's rambling explanation and moved on to the next topic. In this sentence, 'cuts off' is used to indicate that the teacher abruptly interrupted the student's explanation. Other examples of using 'cuts off' in written English include: - The power outage cut off the music in the middle of the party. - The CEO cut off the employee who was trying to criticize the company's policies. - The phone call was cut off due to poor reception. - The comedian's microphone was cut off when he made an inappropriate joke.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It cuts off diagonals.

The New York Times

It cuts off communication.

The Guardian - Opinion

The videotape cuts off suddenly.

The New York Times

She cuts off his genitals.

The New York Times

Holding down the Hit button continuously cuts off all effects.

The New York Times - Tech

Sometimes Bush's anger with the press cuts off communication.

The New Yorker

Shutting the box lid abruptly cuts off the sound.

The New York Times

Ask a headhunter why he cuts off human heads.

The Guardian - Books

And actually, the camera that pans cuts off right there.

The New York Times

So with secret hate it cuts off the deserters".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The threshold value was chosen empirically such that it cuts-off the noise and keeps the structure of interest.

Biomedical Optics Express

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cuts off", be mindful of the context. It can refer to physical severance, interruption of communication, or termination of a supply. Choose alternatives that precisely convey your intended meaning.

Common error

While versatile, "cuts off" can sound informal in academic or professional contexts. Use synonyms like "terminates", "disconnects", or "interrupts" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "cuts off" functions as a dynamic verb, indicating an action of stopping, severing, or interrupting something. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "cuts off" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of stopping, severing, or interrupting something. According to Ludwig, it is commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, with a neutral register that fits both formal and informal communication. When writing, remember to consider the specific context to ensure the intended meaning is accurately conveyed, and in formal situations, explore synonyms such as "terminates" or "disconnects" for enhanced precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interrupts

Refers to an abrupt breaking of continuity, be it in communication or a process.

halts

Describes a sudden or deliberate stopping of progress or action.

shuts down

Implies a complete and often sudden cessation of operation, particularly in systems or organizations.

disconnects

Implies a separation or termination of a connection, often used in technical or abstract contexts.

terminates

Indicates a formal or decisive ending of something.

ceases

Means to come to an end or stop happening.

severs

Suggests a more forceful and complete separation or termination.

discontinues

Suggests an ending to a regular activity or service.

curtails

Signifies a reduction or limitation of something.

obstructs

Indicates something that blocks or impedes progress or view.

FAQs

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

You can use "cuts off" to describe interrupting someone, like "The teacher "cut off" the student" or to describe something being severed, as in "The machine "cuts off" the power supply".

What are some alternatives to "cuts off"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "interrupts", "terminates", "severs", or "disconnects".

Is "cuts off" formal or informal?

"Cuts off" is generally considered neutral in tone and suitable for most everyday conversations. However, in formal writing, a more precise term like "terminates" or "disrupts" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "cuts off" and "shuts down"?

"Cuts off" implies a sudden stop or interruption, while "shuts down" often refers to a more controlled or systematic cessation of operation, especially in machinery or systems.