cutting words

USAGE SUMMARY

"cutting words" is not a commonly used term in English.
A more appropriate term would be "harsh words" or "hurtful words." These phrases refer to words or statements that are intentionally cruel or hurtful. Example: "Her cutting words left me feeling deeply hurt and upset."

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But Orwell would have cutting words about a prize for daring polemic heaping laurels on establishment figures who write about fashionable establishment subjects.

Independent

The rivals ran explosive political advertisements calling into question each other's moral character and exchanged cutting words on the campaign trail.

The New York Times

In a rare public statement, McCain's youngest daughter, Bridget, took to Twitter on Thursday, criticizing Trump for his cutting words against her father.

The Washington Post

Not one has failed to hear the cutting words that he is a better runner than he is a pure passer.

The New York Times - Sports

For his next book, "Tree of Codes," he excised sections of a book by Bruno Scuttingliterally cutting words from the pages--to let his own story emerge.

The New Yorker

Before the floor activities were televised, senators quietly removed cutting words from the Congressional Record, as when one member called another a "rancid tub of ignorance" on the Senate floor in the 1950s.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

And we have here akebono ya, "early dawn," and the ya is the cutting word, so that sets the scene.

Columbia University

Mr. Bourne grows pensive when he admits the anguish he felt at the loss of lovers to AIDS, the casual derision of the public, a cruel, cutting word from a family member.

The New York Times

Terse syntax heightens the strangeness, with the colon in the middle line acting as a kind of portal, similar in dramatic effect to the haiku's traditional "cutting word".

The Guardian - Books

Traditionally, haiku contain a kireji, or cutting word, usually placed at the end of one of the poem's three sections, and a kigo, or season-word.

Wikipedia

The hokku, or starting verse, of renga collaborations indicated the season and also contained a cutting word.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing emotional impact, consider stronger alternatives like "harsh" or "hurtful" if the context requires greater clarity or intensity.

Common error

While "cutting words" is understood, it may sound less impactful in formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "scathing criticism" or "acerbic language" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cutting words" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "cutting" modifies the noun "words". It describes the nature or quality of the words themselves. Ludwig provides examples where the phrase is used to describe critical or hurtful speech.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cutting words" refers to language that is intended to be hurtful or critical. While grammatically sound, as supported by examples found by Ludwig, the AI suggests that "harsh words" or "hurtful words" are more frequently used alternatives. Although the phrase is found in varied sources, predominately in news and media, writers should consider the context and desired level of formality when selecting the most appropriate synonym. If aiming for a more impactful tone, exploring alternatives such as "scathing criticism" or "acerbic language" might be beneficial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harsh words

Emphasizes the severity and unpleasantness of the words.

hurtful words

Focuses on the emotional pain caused by the words.

bitter words

Highlights the resentment and animosity behind the words.

sharp words

Highlights the pointed and piercing nature of the words.

cruel remarks

Emphasizes the lack of compassion and the deliberate infliction of pain.

caustic remarks

Suggests a corrosive and sarcastic quality to the words.

scathing criticism

Implies a severe and damaging form of critique.

vicious words

Implies a malicious intent and a desire to harm.

stinging words

Highlights the sharp, painful impact of the words.

acerbic language

Indicates a sour or bitter tone in the language used.

FAQs

What does "cutting words" mean?

"Cutting words" refers to remarks or statements that are intended to be hurtful, critical, or damaging. They are designed to inflict emotional pain.

Are there alternatives to "cutting words"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "harsh words", "hurtful words", or "scathing criticism" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How to use "cutting words" in a sentence?

You can use "cutting words" to describe someone's speech or writing, for example: "Her cutting words left me feeling humiliated" or "The article contained cutting words about the government's policies".

Is "cutting words" formal or informal?

The phrase "cutting words" is generally considered neutral. However, in more formal contexts, using alternatives like "acerbic language" or "caustic remarks" may be more appropriate.