Differences between cut out and cut up
Cut out means to remove or stop something abruptly, while cut up means to cut into small pieces.
Meanings and Definitions: cut out vs cut up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Cut up
- 1Cut into smaller pieces.
After cutting the tree down, the logger CUT it UP into logs.
- 2Drive into a neighbouring lane, directly in front of another vehicle.
I was just driving onto the motorway sliproad, when a red Mini CUT me UP and I had to brake suddenly to avoid an accident.
- 3Upset.
Her reaction really CUT me UP.
- 4Have a lot of small injuries.
I CUT my hand UP when I broke the glass.
Usage Examples: cut out, cut up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cut out
Example
I need to cut out junk food from my diet.
Example
She cuts out sugar from her coffee.
cut up
Example
She cut up the vegetables for the salad.
Example
He cuts up the fruit for the fruit salad.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cut out
To give up or resign from a job, habit, or activity.
Example
She finally quit smoking after years of trying to do so.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cut up
To cut something into small pieces with a sharp tool.
Example
She needs to chop the vegetables before adding them to the soup.
To cut food into small cubes of equal size.
Example
The recipe calls for diced tomatoes and onions.
To cut food into thin, flat pieces.
Example
He needs to slice the bread before toasting it.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “cut”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in cut out vs cut up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cut out or cut up?
In daily conversation, people use cut out more often than cut up. This is because cut out is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning off a machine or stopping a behavior. Cut up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about cutting food or other objects into smaller pieces. So, while both phrases are used, cut out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cut out and cut up
Cut out and cut up 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 out and cut up
The tone of cut out and cut up can differ based on context. Cut out often carries a decisive or annoyed tone when related to stopping something, while cut up typically has a practical and neutral tone, especially when referring to cutting food or objects.
