Differences between cut off and cut out
Cut off usually means to stop the supply of something, or to disconnect or separate something from its source. On the other hand, cut out generally means to remove something by cutting it, or to stop doing something.
Meanings and Definitions: cut off vs cut out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cut off
- 1Disconnect.
The telephone's been CUT OFF because we didn't pay the bill.
- 2Isolate or make inaccessible.
The heavy snow has blocked many roads and CUT OFF a number of villages.
Cut out
- 1Exclude.
I'm CUTTING OUT salt from my diet.
- 2When an engine or motor stops.
The car CUT OUT at the traffic lights just as they went green.
- 3Cut a picture or similar from a magazine, etc.
ICUT some pictures OUT to use as visual aids.
- 4Leave quickly.
We'd better CUT OUT, the security men are on the way.
- 5Separate livestock from a group.
They CUT OUT three prime bulls from the herd.
Usage Examples: cut off, cut out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cut off
Example
I accidentally cut off the power while rearranging the furniture.
Example
He frequently cuts off the water supply to save resources.
cut out
Example
I need to cut out junk food from my diet.
Example
She cuts out sugar from her coffee.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cut off
To break the connection between two things or people.
Example
I accidentally disconnected the phone line while moving the furniture.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cut out
To take something away or eliminate it.
Example
She decided to remove sugar from her diet to improve her health.
To stop doing something or to come to an end.
Example
The company decided to cease production of the unpopular product.
To stop doing something or to resign from a job or activity.
Example
He decided to quit smoking and started exercising regularly instead.
Differences in cut off vs cut out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cut off or cut out?
In daily conversation, people use cut off more often than cut out. This is because cut off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as electricity or water supply being cut off, or a phone call being disconnected. Cut out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about removing something or stopping an activity. So, while both phrases are used, cut off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cut off and cut out
Cut off and cut out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cut off and cut out
The tone of cut off and cut out can differ based on context. Cut off often carries a negative or abrupt tone when related to stopping something, while cut out typically has a positive or proactive tone, especially when referring to removing something or stopping an activity.
