to be chopped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be chopped" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is to be cut or reduced, often referring to food preparation or metaphorically to describe a reduction in size or quantity. Example: "The vegetables need to be chopped before we can start cooking the soup."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They don't even need to be chopped.

The New York Times - Food

There is water to be hauled, firewood to be chopped.

The Economist

So the "tall poppy" was waiting to be chopped down.

The Guardian

Techno was born digital; it likes to be chopped up.

The New York Times - Tech

He saves some of the liver to be chopped and served on toasted brioche.

Independent

At Honig, several rows of vines had to be chopped down.

The Economist

It was a pile of trees that were waiting to be chopped up.

The New York Times

An awful lot of trees still have to be chopped down to provide that.

The Economist

His head is to be chopped off by an executioner wielding a long, curved sword.

The New York Times

It's not just fictional characters who need to be chopped to make shows better.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was too beloved, too singular, to be chopped up and sold for parts like this.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be chopped" metaphorically, ensure that the image of cutting or reducing is appropriate for the context. For example, "budgets to be chopped" implies significant reductions.

Common error

Avoid using "to be chopped" in overly abstract or delicate situations where the forceful imagery of chopping is inappropriate. Opt for milder alternatives like "reduced" or "modified" for a more nuanced tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be chopped" functions primarily as a passive infinitive verb phrase. It indicates that something is in a state of needing to undergo the action of chopping. Ludwig demonstrates its usage in various contexts, from food preparation to budget reductions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to be chopped" is a versatile passive infinitive verb phrase indicating something needs to be cut or reduced. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and very commonly used, especially in News & Media. While the phrase often refers to the physical action of chopping, it can also be used metaphorically to describe reductions in budgets or other quantities. When writing, be mindful of the context and choose alternatives like "to be cut" or "to be reduced" when a less forceful image is desired. Avoid misusing "to be chopped" in delicate situations. Overall, understanding the nuances of "to be chopped" allows for its effective use in both literal and figurative contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be cut

This alternative is a more general term for dividing something with a sharp instrument. It lacks the specificity of "chopped", which implies a more forceful cutting action.

to be diced

This alternative refers to a specific type of cutting into small cubes, generally used in culinary contexts. It is less versatile than "chopped".

to be sliced

This alternative implies cutting into thin, flat pieces. It is suitable in specific contexts where thinness is emphasized.

to be hewn

This alternative implies a rough or forceful cutting, often with an axe or similar tool. It is more archaic and less commonly used than "chopped".

to be trimmed

This alternative means to cut away unwanted parts to make something neater or more even. It implies a more delicate cutting action than "chopped".

to be severed

This alternative implies a complete cutting off or separation. It is often used in more dramatic or serious contexts.

to be pruned

This alternative is primarily used in the context of plants or trees and refers to cutting away dead or overgrown branches to encourage growth. It's very specific to the botanical context.

to be cleaved

This alternative implies splitting or cutting something with a sharp blow, often along a natural line or grain. It suggests a more forceful and decisive action than "chopped".

to be lopped

This alternative is more specific, meaning to cut off branches or twigs from a tree or bush. It's limited to botanical contexts and implies a more selective cutting than "chopped".

to be bisected

This alternative means to divide something into two equal parts. It is highly specific and mathematical, lacking the general application of "chopped".

FAQs

How can I use "to be chopped" in a sentence?

You can use "to be chopped" in sentences like, "The vegetables need "to be chopped" before adding them to the stew", or, metaphorically, "The budget is expected "to be chopped" due to the economic downturn."

What are some alternatives to "to be chopped"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "to be cut", "to be diced" (for food), or "to be reduced" (for budgets or quantities).

When is it more appropriate to use "to be cut" instead of "to be chopped"?

"To be cut" is a more general term suitable when the method of cutting is not important or when referring to materials other than food. "To be chopped" implies a more forceful or rough cutting action, often used for food preparation.

What does it mean when someone says something is "to be chopped" in a business context?

In a business context, ""to be chopped"" typically means that something, such as a budget, a project, or even a team, is going to be significantly reduced or eliminated. It often implies a drastic or decisive action.