What are the definitions of “cut back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Reduce.
The firm CUT BACK production because sales were sluggish.
- 2Remove branches from a plant or tree to encourage future growth.
We CUT the tree BACK every winter.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cut back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cut back is to reduce something, such as expenses, production, or consumption. It is often used when talking about saving money or resources.
What are the different verb forms of “cut back”?
| Root Verb | cut back |
| Third Person Singular Present | cuts back |
| Present Participle | cutting back |
| Simple Past | cut back |
| Past Participle | cut back |
Example
We need to cut back on our spending this month.
Example
She cuts back on her coffee intake to sleep better at night.
Example
They are cutting back on their electricity usage to save money.
Example
Last year, the company cut back on its marketing budget.
Example
The government has cut back on funding for the arts.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cut back”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“cut back” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
We need to cut back our expenses.
Example
The gardener cut back the overgrown bushes.
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 back” 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 need to cut back our expenses.
Example
The gardener cut back the overgrown bushes.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cut back”?
Good things to know
Does “cut back” have an informal or formal tone?
Cut back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or written reports.
