it cuts down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it cuts down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to reducing or decreasing something, such as costs, time, or resources. Example: "Implementing this new software cuts down the time needed for data entry significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Since MTailor uses technology to do its measuring, it cuts down on the costs related to creating custom-fit shirts.

TechCrunch

The Nuue Project revolutionizes conventional methods of garment-making as it cuts down on excess material and labor wasted in pattern cutting and sewing.

Vice

Among rodents, however, the practice is both widespread and well understood: it cuts down on infanticide.

The Economist

Not to mention that it cuts down on what's in your carry-on.

The New York Times

"It cuts down on the perception of the repetition of objects".

The New Yorker

"Oh, it cuts down on the rumble when I'm not singing," he said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

It cut down on his offense.

The New York Times - Sports

Does it cut down on my overall app capacity?

The New York Times - Tech

"I don't want it cut down," she says.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Adobe also benefits because a rental plan helps it cut down on software piracy.

The New York Times - Tech

The capture of the Red increased the Atchafalaya's power as it cut down the country beside the Mississippi.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it cuts down", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being reduced or decreased. For example, "This new process cuts down on errors" is clearer than simply saying "it cuts down."

Common error

Avoid using "it cuts down" without a clear antecedent for "it". Ensure the reader knows what "it" refers to in order to prevent confusion. For instance, instead of saying "It cuts down", specify "The new software cuts down processing time."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it cuts down" functions as a verb phrase expressing a reduction or decrease in something. Ludwig examples show it used to describe reducing costs, time, emissions, and various other quantifiable aspects. It is a transitive phrasal verb.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

22%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it cuts down" is a common and grammatically sound way to express reduction or decrease. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in various contexts, primarily in news, science, and general writing. The phrase's versatility makes it suitable for explaining efficiencies, cost savings, or any scenario where something is lessened. While its use is generally straightforward, clarity is crucial: always ensure the referent of "it" is clear to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "it reduces" or "it lessens" depending on the desired nuance. Finally, remember its prevalence across diverse sources, including The New York Times, TechCrunch, and The Guardian, indicating its broad acceptability and utility in modern English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it reduces

More direct and general term for lessening.

it decreases

Similar to reduces but emphasizes a gradual decline.

it lessens

Implies a weakening or mitigation.

it diminishes

Suggests a gradual reduction in importance or size.

it curtails

More formal, suggesting a restriction or limitation.

it mitigates

Reduces the severity or impact of something negative.

it alleviates

Focuses on reducing suffering or difficulty.

it trims

Reduces by removing unnecessary parts.

it abbreviates

Shortens in length or duration.

it streamlines

Simplifies a process, making it more efficient.

FAQs

What does "it cuts down" mean?

The phrase "it cuts down" means that something reduces, decreases, or lessens something else. It implies a reduction in quantity, size, or intensity.

How can I use "it cuts down" in a sentence?

You can use "it cuts down" to describe how something reduces another thing. For example, "Working from home "it cuts down" on commuting time", or "The new energy-efficient appliance "it cuts down" electricity consumption".

What can I say instead of "it cuts down"?

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

Is "it cuts down on" the same as "it eliminates"?

No, "it cuts down on" suggests a reduction, while "it eliminates" implies a complete removal. For instance, "Improved insulation "it cuts down on" heating costs", versus "The new security system "it eliminates" the risk of theft."