cutting off communication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cutting off communication" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of stopping or severing all forms of communication with someone. Example: "After the argument, she decided that cutting off communication was the best way to move on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

As they face off in the Western Conference semifinals, Couture, 24, and Doughty, 23, have donned the masks of adversaries, cutting off communication.

The New York Times - Sports

As the urban campfire wound down, it occurred to an agreeably freaked-out partygoer that "ghosting" was perhaps the wrong word for cutting off communication with someone without explanation or warning.

The New Yorker

He thinks this is one of the places where his age is an advantage and he said: "What the hell do I have to lose?" It's a thought that could clear the way for the most reckless of actions, including cutting off communication with our nuclear-armed co-superpower the Soviet Union.

The New Yorker

Apparently, one of his steps of grief is cutting off communication with his former teammate.

Huffington Post

Strong winds in the Pensacola area downed telecommunication lines and disrupted power, cutting off communication to outside areas for 24 hours.

Wikipedia

The results show that cutting off communication with exes--or, for that matter, anyone we have strong feelings for--is easier said than done.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

However, Lansdale then proceeds to arrest O'Brian, cutting off communications.

Wikipedia

The tactic, which involved a complete boycott and cutting off of communication, was widely embraced by non-Hasidic rabbis, who were given the title of Mitnaggedim ("Opponents") by the Hasidim.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The cutting off of communications confirmed this.

TechCrunch

Satoshi, as the creator became known, communicated only by electronic message and never revealed his or her true identity before cutting off all communication in 2011.

The New York Times

We are not going to have any communication with you until (the Soviet forces in Afghanistan) are back in the Soviet Union.'" Quite apart from the merits of cutting off all communication with the Soviet Union, it's difficult to see how it could be accomplished.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interpersonal relationships, consider the emotional impact of "cutting off communication". Use alternative phrases like "severing ties" or "breaking off contact" to convey the severity of the situation without sounding clinical.

Common error

Avoid using "cutting off communication" repeatedly in formal reports or business correspondence. Opt for more professional alternatives like "ceasing communication" or "suspending dialogue" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cutting off communication" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig examples show it describing a deliberate action to stop or interrupt the flow of information or contact between individuals or entities. Ludwig AI validates that phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

27%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cutting off communication" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the act of stopping or severing all forms of communication. As Ludwig highlights, it's frequently used in news and media contexts, as well as on wikis and in scientific discussions. While versatile, it's important to consider the formality of the situation. For formal contexts, more polished alternatives like "ceasing communication" or "suspending dialogue" may be more appropriate. Remember to choose phrases like "severing ties" or "breaking off contact" to convey the emotional impact of a situation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity, so use it confidently, but always with consideration for context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ceasing communication

A more formal way of saying "cutting off communication", implying a deliberate stop.

severing ties

Emphasizes the breaking of a bond or relationship, which includes communication.

breaking off contact

Focuses on ending any form of interaction or connection.

terminating contact

A more decisive and final way of saying ending any form of connection.

halting correspondence

Specifically refers to stopping written communication.

going no contact

A more colloquial term for completely ceasing communication, often in personal relationships.

ending all exchanges

Highlights the cessation of any form of reciprocal communication.

suspending dialogue

Implies a temporary cessation of communication, often in a formal setting.

silencing communication channels

Refers to preventing information from being transmitted through specific routes.

imposing a communications blackout

Suggests a complete and enforced stop to all communication.

FAQs

How can I use "cutting off communication" in a sentence?

You can use "cutting off communication" to describe actions that halt information flow or end relationships. For example: "The company decided on "cutting off communication" with the supplier due to quality concerns."

What's the difference between "cutting off communication" and "ceasing communication"?

"Cutting off communication" is more informal and immediate, while "ceasing communication" is a more formal and gradual process. The first suggests a sudden stop, and the second a planned termination.

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

You can use alternatives like "severing ties", "breaking off contact", or "halting correspondence", depending on the specific type and context of communication being stopped.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "cutting off communication"?

The phrase "cutting off communication" is appropriate in various contexts, from describing personal relationships to discussing international relations or technical failures where communication is disrupted. Be aware of the specific audience and choose more formal alternatives if needed.