Verbs for Cutting

to divide a thing into smaller pieces using a sharp object

I cut the paper with scissors to make a snowflake.

to cut through something at its base in order to make it fall

The lumberjacks had to cut down the old oak tree to clear space for the new construction project.

to use a sharp object like scissors or a knife on something to remove a section from it

Can you cut the coupons out of the magazine so we can use them at the store?

to slice something into smaller parts

The chef skillfully cut up the vegetables for the stir-fry, ensuring they were uniform in size.

to make a deep cut or opening, often using a sharp tool or object

During the accident, the broken glass gashed the driver's arm, requiring immediate attention.

to cut something into very small pieces

To make coleslaw, you need to shred the cabbage finely.

to cut or remove something by pinching or using scissors

The tailor had to snip the excess fabric to perfect the garment's fit.

to make something, like clothing, look better by adding decorative elements

She decided to trim her plain dress with a delicate lace to give it a more elegant look.

to tear the skin or flesh, causing deep and often irregular wounds

The jagged glass shards lacerated his hand when he tried to pick them up.

a detachable holder that feeds cartridges into a firearm

to make a slight and precise cut, typically with a razor or a sharp tool

The barber snicked the edges of the client's hair for a clean and polished look.

a number representing the points, goals, etc. a player achieves in a competition or game

Everyone at the party was surprised by the high score in the card game.

to cut grass, wheat, etc. with a gardening machine or handheld tools, such as a scythe

Every weekend, he spends time mowing the lawn to keep it well-manicured.

all the fruit, wheat, etc. harvested during a season

The farmer harvested a large crop of corn this year.

to make a small, shallow cut or groove into something

The woodworker carefully nicks the edge of the board to mark the measurement.

to cut a V-shaped groove or mark into something

The carpenter needs to notch the wooden beam to fit it securely into place.

to cut something into pieces using a knife, etc.

She chops vegetables for the stir-fry every evening.

to separate something from a whole

The surgeon needed to sever the damaged tissue to facilitate healing.

to use a sharp object like scissors or a knife on something to remove a piece from its edge or ends

Before assembling the model, he used a hobby knife to cut off the excess plastic from the parts.

to create a clean and narrow cut through something

The tailor decided to slit the fabric to create a vent in the back of the dress.

(computing) to illegally access a computer system, network, or online account in order to find, use, or change the information it contains

Hackers may try to hack into your email account to send spam messages to your contacts.

to cut something by striking it with an axe or similar tool

The lumberjack skillfully hewed the massive tree with precise axe strikes.

to violently cut with a quick move using a knife, etc.

The assailant slashed at the victim with a sharp knife, leaving deep wounds on their arm.

to notice a thing or person with our eyes

Did you see that shooting star just now?

to cut something using a sharp tool, often with precision and accuracy

The chef deftly cleaved the meat with a sharp knife for precise portions.