cutting off access

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cutting off access" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is being denied entry or the ability to use something, such as a service or resource. Example: "The new policy is aimed at cutting off access to unauthorized users."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Roads closed, cutting off access to supplies.

The New Yorker

Crops and shrimp farms flooded, and 13 bridges collapsed, cutting off access for coffee exporters.

The New York Times

Highways were closed in parts of Wyoming, cutting off access to one town on Friday night.

The New York Times

Many privatization schemes have failed to deliver and have made things even worse by raising rates and cutting off access.

The New York Times

Anything that boycotts Israel means we are in danger of cutting off access to [those] we should be speaking to".

The Guardian

"But I don't think we have the right to achieve that goal by cutting off access for newspapers".

The New York Times

Baugur has been in limbo since the Icelandic banking system imploded last year, cutting off access to funds.

The Guardian - Business

If Assad's forces succeed in encircling Aleppo, cutting off access to the highway to Turkey, the city could be starved into submission, as has happened elsewhere.

The New Yorker

Beyond the violence against protesters, the report accused the government of trying to pressure and punish the civilian population by cutting off access to electricity, fuel and water.

The New York Times

In New Zealand the government scrapped the idea before implementation, and in Britain the idea of cutting off access has been ruled out.

The Economist

If this dangerous experiment becomes law, Washington can still end it by refusing to cooperate, cutting off access to immigration records.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cutting off access", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being restricted and to whom or what it is being restricted to for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "cutting off access" without specifying what the access refers to. Always clarify what is being restricted to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cutting off access" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the action of preventing or restricting entry, use, or availability. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cutting off access" functions primarily as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun, denoting the act of restricting entry or use. According to Ludwig, this expression is grammatically correct and versatile, frequently appearing in neutral contexts such as News & Media. While the phrase is common, it's crucial to ensure clarity by specifying exactly what is being restricted and to whom or what as per the recommendations. For alternatives, consider options like "restricting access" or "preventing access" depending on the desired nuance. In sum, "cutting off access" is a useful expression, particularly in news and general discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preventing access

Highlights the act of stopping or hindering access before it occurs.

restricting access

Broader in scope, covering various forms of limitations, not just physical.

shutting off access

Implies a complete and often sudden cessation of access.

restricting entry

Focuses on limiting physical entry to a place or resource; slightly more specific.

withholding access

Suggests intentionally keeping access from someone or something.

blocking entry

Implies a physical or digital barrier is preventing entry or access.

denying entry

Emphasizes a refusal of entry, highlighting a more direct and forceful action.

impeding access

Suggests a hindrance or obstacle that makes access more difficult but not necessarily impossible.

terminating access

Formally indicates the end of allowed access, common in legal or official contexts.

suspending access

Temporary removal of access rights, suggesting a possible future restoration.

FAQs

What does "cutting off access" mean?

"Cutting off access" means preventing someone or something from entering, using, or reaching a particular place, service, or resource.

What can I say instead of "cutting off access"?

You can use alternatives like "restricting access", "denying entry", or "blocking access" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "cut off access"?

Yes, "cut off access" is grammatically correct, with the verb in past simple. However, "cutting off access" is a gerund phrase often used as a noun, describing the action itself.

Which is more formal, "cutting off access" or "restricting access"?

"Restricting access" is generally considered more formal than "cutting off access". "Cutting off access" can sound more abrupt or forceful.