tops cut

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tops cut" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to the upper parts of something that have been removed or trimmed, such as in cooking or crafting. Example: "For the salad, make sure to wash the vegetables thoroughly and have the tops cut off the radishes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Today's utes look like station wagons with the tops cut off behind the front seats.

The New York Times

The effect was rather in the tunic tops, cut on sparse, geometric lines, maybe sliced at an angle, baring shoulders or with flourishes at the neckline.

The New York Times

At least a half-dozen years earlier, minuscule tops cut to expose a wide expanse of midriff snared the attention of the fashion tribe.

The New York Times

The proportions balanced fitted tops — cut nipped in or cinched tight at the waist, with riveted or saddlebag belts — with floor-length skirts or jeans and long leather dusters.

The New York Times

In the northwestern United States tall trees 80 100 metres (about 250 300 feet) high, their tops cut off by a climbing logger, are employed as masts, or spar trees, to attach the cables.

Encyclopedia Britannica

1200g strawberries 8 tbsp grappa 4 tsp caster sugar, plus extra to serve 1 Hull the strawberries by pulling off the green tops (cut them if they are under-ripe).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Crop tops, cut-offs, cutouts, bathing suits, bandeaus and bustiers are all popular.

WikiHow

Scatter the arugula on top, cut into wedges and serve.

The New York Times - Health

Classic Colombian grill food: top cut (fillet steak) £6.

The Guardian - Travel

Arrange fresh basil leaves on top, cut into wedges and serve.

The New York Times - Health

Top with fruit mixture, and place remaining cake half on top, cut side down.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing actions like preparing ingredients or modifying objects, use "tops cut" to clearly indicate the removal of the upper part.

Common error

Avoid using "tops cut" when "tops removed" or "top portions trimmed" would be more appropriate to convey a gentler or more precise action. For example, "tops removed" works better when referring to delicate flowers, while "tops cut" suits sturdier vegetables.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tops cut" functions primarily as a verb phrase describing an action performed on an object. It indicates that the upper portions of something have been severed or removed. Ludwig provides examples in contexts such as preparing food or modifying objects, confirming its use in active descriptions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

21%

Lifestyle

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tops cut" is a verb phrase that describes the action of removing the upper part of something. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in a variety of contexts, particularly within news, lifestyle, and wiki sources. It is a commonly used phrase but can be more effective when clearly understood by the user. Depending on the user intention and context, alternatives like "tops removed" or "ends clipped" might be more appropriate. Pay attention to context in order to chose the best and most effective form.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

top portions severed

Indicates a clean and complete cutting of the upper sections, suitable for formal descriptions.

tips removed

Concentrates on taking off just the ends, applicable in cooking or detailed trimming.

upper parts trimmed

Emphasizes the action of trimming the upper sections, offering a more formal tone.

cropped heads

Emphasizes shortening from the top, frequently used in agricultural or cosmetic contexts.

ends clipped

Focuses on a precise cutting action, suitable for scenarios like hair or plant care.

decapped

Implies the removal of a cap or lid, often used figuratively or literally in chemical or cooking contexts.

excised crowns

Highlights the removal of the top part, often in a surgical or deliberate context.

truncated peaks

Suggests a reduction in height, often applied to physical structures or formations.

amputated apexes

Presents a forceful removal of the uppermost point, implying a severe or surgical action.

surfaces detached

Highlights separation rather than cutting, fitting scenarios where the top is peeled or lifted off.

FAQs

How can I use "tops cut" in a sentence?

You can use "tops cut" to describe the process of removing the upper parts of something, such as "The chef had the staff ensure all the strawberry "tops cut" before making the tart".

What are some alternatives to saying "tops cut"?

Some alternatives include "tops removed", "upper parts trimmed", or "ends clipped", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "tops cut" instead of "tops removed"?

"Tops cut" is suitable when a sharp cutting action is involved, while "tops removed" can be used when the removal is more general or gentle.

Is "tops cut" formal or informal language?

"Tops cut" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it might be preferable to use a more descriptive term like "upper parts trimmed" in very formal writing.