Cut at Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To make a quick, forceful swinging movement with something sharp, usually to try to hit or damage something or someone.
Usage & Nuances
'Cut at' is used when someone swings or strikes with a sharp object but does not necessarily make contact. Common in descriptions of fights or accidents. It is less common in everyday conversation and is often found in written or narrative contexts. Do not confuse with 'cut' alone, which means to divide or slice directly.
Example Sentences
The boy cut at the tree branch with a knife.
basic
She cut at the rope but missed.
basic
The man cut at the snake with a stick.
basic
He angrily cut at the overgrown grass, hoping to clear a path.
natural
She cut at her opponent during the fencing match but didn’t score a point.
natural
Panicking, he wildly cut at the thick vines blocking his way.
natural