to cut off

/kˈʌt ˈɔf/

/kˈʌt ˈɒf/

Definition & Meaning of "cut off"

to cut off

[phrase form: cut]

VERB

to use a sharp object like scissors or a knife on something to remove a piece from its edge or ends

Transitive: to cut off sth

Example

Before assembling the model, he used a hobby knife to cut off the excess plastic from the parts.

The sculptor carefully cut off excess clay to shape the figurine according to the design.

to remove a part of the body, tissue, or organ through a surgical intervention

Transitive: to cut off a body part or organ

Example

The dental surgeon had to cut off the decayed tooth to prevent the spread of infection to adjacent teeth.

In cases of extreme frostbite, amputation may be necessary to cut off the frost-damaged extremity.

to abruptly stop speaking or interrupt someone in the middle of their speech

Transitive: to cut off sb

Example

Sarah was about to reveal the surprise, but I cut her off before she could spoil it.

The professor cut off the student who was going off-topic during the lecture.

to stop providing a specific resource

Transitive: to cut off a resource

Example

The mayor announced plans to cut off funding for the controversial project.

The overdue payments led the utility company to cut off electricity to the delinquent customer.

to end a phone call while the other person is still on the line

Transitive: to cut off a phone call

Example

In the middle of discussing plans, Tom's boss had to cut off the call unexpectedly for an urgent meeting.

Due to a poor signal, Amanda had to cut off the call with her colleague in the middle of their conversation.

to cease serving alcoholic drinks to an individual

Transitive: to cut off sb

Example

Signs of slurred speech and unsteady movements prompted the bartender to cut off the patron to ensure their safety.

The responsible bartender chose to cut off the visibly intoxicated customer, offering water and assistance instead.

to become separated or isolated from something or someone, often by an obstacle or barrier

Transitive: to cut off a place or area

Example

The bridge was cut off by the floodwaters.

The river cut off the village from the rest of the region.

to exclude someone from getting one's possessions after death

Transitive: to cut off an heir

Example

In his will, he chose to cut off distant relatives and bequeath his estate to charitable organizations.

Facing family disputes, she decided to cut off certain members and distribute her assets to trusted friends.

to aggressively and dangerously drive one's vehicle in the path of a moving vehicle

Dialect

American

cut up

British

Transitive: to cut off a person or vehicle

Informal

Example

The impatient driver decided to cut off the car in the next lane, forcing it to brake suddenly.

He narrowly avoided an accident when a truck unexpectedly cut him off on the highway.

to end a relationship, particularly a friendly one

Transitive: to cut off a person or a relationship

Example

After a series of betrayals, she decided to cut off ties with her unreliable friend.

The disagreement over business decisions led the partners to cut off their professional relationship.

to deny someone or something what they need or want

Transitive: to cut off a need or privilege

Example

The strict diet plan required her to cut off certain foods to achieve her health goals.

In response to the misbehavior, the teacher threatened to cut off recess privileges for the unruly students.

cut off

detached by cutting

Nearby Words

cut off nose to spite face

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Definition & Meaning of "cut off"

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