cutting

word · lemma: cut

/ˈkətɪŋ/
KUH-ding
/kˈʌtɪŋ/
KUH-ting

Definition

The act of using something sharp to divide or remove part of something. It can also describe the process of reducing something, such as costs or jobs.

Usage & Nuances

Often appears as a noun or adjective: 'cutting board', 'cutting tools', 'budget cutting'. In everyday English, the -ing form can describe an action in progress ('She is cutting bread'), but as a standalone vocabulary item it is less common than 'cut' and usually needs context.

Example Sentences

The knife is for cutting bread.

basic

She is cutting paper with scissors.

basic

The company is cutting costs this year.

basic

He's been cutting back on sugar lately.

natural

Watch your fingers when you're cutting onions.

natural

They're cutting the scene from the final version of the movie.

natural