to cut out

USAGE SUMMARY

"to cut out" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a phrasal verb meaning to remove or stop something, either literally or figuratively. For example, "I need to cut out sugar from my diet if I want to lose weight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That would seem to cut out Asimov.

The Guardian - Books

One is to cut out locksmiths.

The New York Times

Who wants to cut out disabled children?

The Guardian - Opinion

"We're trying to cut out two layers".

The New York Times

"For years everyone has been advised to cut out fats.

Independent

We basically want to cut out the middleman.

Independent

I didn't want to cut out food groups.

The New York Times

Don't forget to cut out some bunny teeth.

The Guardian

The blonde told him not to cut out drinking.

The New Yorker

Harjeet tells me I have to cut out beer.

Independent

I'm thinking I'll have to cut out the night stuff".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone on dietary changes, be specific about what "to cut out". Instead of saying "cut out junk food", suggest "cut out sugary drinks and processed snacks".

Common error

While "to cut out" is versatile, avoid overuse in formal contexts. Opt for more precise synonyms like "eliminate", "remove", or "exclude" to maintain a professional tone. For example, instead of "The company decided to cut out the marketing budget", use "The company decided to eliminate the marketing budget".

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "to cut out" functions primarily as a verb indicating removal, elimination, or avoidance. Ludwig provides examples ranging from dietary restrictions ("Harjeet tells me I have to cut out beer") to process optimization ("We're trying to cut out two layers"). Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to cut out" is a versatile phrasal verb meaning to remove or eliminate something, applicable in both literal and figurative contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various situations. When writing, be mindful of its potential informality in highly formal contexts, and consider more precise synonyms like "eliminate" or "remove" for enhanced clarity. Examples provided by Ludwig, showcase its usage across diverse scenarios, from health advice to business strategies. Remember that while it's generally safe, specific recommendations are more effective than broad statements when suggesting what to remove.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to eliminate

Focuses on complete removal, sometimes implying a systematic process.

to remove

A general term for taking something away, applicable in many situations.

to excise

Suggests a surgical or precise removal of something unwanted.

to omit

Implies intentionally leaving something out or excluding it.

to exclude

Focuses on preventing something from being included or considered.

to eradicate

Emphasizes complete destruction or elimination, often of something harmful.

to abstain from

Specifically refers to refraining from doing or consuming something, often for health or moral reasons.

to get rid of

An informal way to say to eliminate or dispose of something unwanted.

to do away with

Suggests abolishing or getting rid of something, often a rule or practice.

to dispense with

Implies that something is no longer necessary or required.

FAQs

How can I use "to cut out" in a sentence about reducing expenses?

You can say, "The company needs "to cut out" unnecessary spending to increase profits".

What's a more formal alternative "to cut out" in academic writing?

In academic writing, consider using "eliminate", "remove", or "exclude" depending on the context for a more formal tone.

Is it correct to use "to cut out" when referring to removing someone from a group?

Yes, it can be used. For example, "They decided "to cut out" the disruptive member from the team".

When is it appropriate to use "to cut out" literally, like with scissors?

You can use it when physically removing something with a cutting tool, such as "Use scissors "to cut out" the template".