cut loose

/kˈʌt lˈuːs/

[phrase]

to cut loose

[PHRASE]

to behave in a very wild and incontrollable manner

What is the origin of the idiom "cut loose" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "cut loose" can be traced back to nautical terminology. In sailing, when a ship was anchored or moored, it was held in place by various ropes and lines. To "cut loose" referred to the act of severing those ropes and lines, allowing the ship to be free and move without restraint. It is often used in social settings, such as parties, celebrations, or gatherings, where individuals want to release their inhibitions and engage in uninhibited enjoyment.

Examples

1. Me and my friends cutting loose on a cruise.

2. Don't be too hard on them - they're just kids and they need to cut loose sometimes.

3. That's what's so surprising, 'cause Jim, his character on The Office, is so cool and collected, but when Krasinski cuts loose, he's just a riot.

4. So hearing some else lose it over a joke can decrease our inner awkward turtle and increase our ability to cut loose and just laugh.