What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cutdown
Example
We need to cut down on our expenses to save money. [cut down: phrasal verb]
Example
The company decided to cut down on paper usage to reduce waste. [cut down: phrasal verb]
curtail
Example
The government curtailed the freedom of speech during the war. [curtailed: past tense verb]
Example
The school decided to curtail the length of recess due to safety concerns. [curtail: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cutdown is more commonly used in everyday language than curtail. Cutdown is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while curtail is more specific and often used in formal writing or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cutdown and curtail?
Curtail is more formal and academic than cutdown. It is often used in legal or political contexts to describe the restriction of rights or privileges. Cutdown, on the other hand, is more informal and colloquial, making it suitable for everyday language use.
