What are the definitions of “cut across”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Go across a place rather than around it to make the journey quicker.
It'll be quicker if we CUT ACROSS the park.
- 2Affect people of different groups, classes, etc.
The issue CUTS ACROSS social backgrounds as it affects us all equally.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cut across”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cut across is to go through a place instead of going around it, making the journey shorter or faster. For example, it can mean taking a shortcut through a park or a field.
What are the different verb forms of “cut across”?
| Root Verb | cut across |
| Third Person Singular Present | cuts across |
| Present Participle | cutting across |
| Simple Past | cut across |
| Past Participle | cut across |
Example
We can cut across the field to save time.
Example
She cuts across the park on her way to work.
Example
He is cutting across the grass to reach the other side.
Example
Yesterday, they cut across the playground to get to the store.
Example
The path cut across the forest, making the hike shorter.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cut across”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“cut across” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
We cut across the park to save time.
Example
She cut across the field to reach the bus stop.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“cut across” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
We cut across the park to save time.
Example
She cut across the field to reach the bus stop.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cut across”?
Good things to know
Does “cut across” have an informal or formal tone?
Cut across is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic discussions or professional meetings.
