This is lesson 4 from Idiom Part 4. Each idiom is followed by its definition and examples. After you learn them, you can use them in your daily conversation.
Previous English Idiom Lesson
In our previous English idiom lesson, we cover below:
English Idiom Part 4- Lesson 4- Idioms about Cut
1. Cut out for doing something = To be naturally suited or qualified for a particular task.
She’s really cut out for working with children, she’s so patient and creative.
2. Have/get your work cut out = To have a very difficult task to do.
You’ll have your work cut out if you’re planning to finish that report by tonight.
3. A cut above other people = Clearly superior to others.
His presentation skills are a cut above other people in his department.
4. To cut a long story short = To get to the point quickly.
To cut a long story short, we missed our flight and had to rebook.
5. Cut your losses = To stop doing something that is not working and minimize further loss.
We decided to cut our losses and sell the business before it lost more money.
6. Cut corners = To do something badly or cheaply to save time or money.
The contractor cut corners and now the ceiling is leaking.
7. A cutting remark = A comment that is very critical or hurtful.
His cutting remark about her appearance really upset her.
8. Cut no ice = To have no effect or influence.
His excuse cut no ice with the teacher, and he still got detention.
9. Cut both ways = Something has both positive and negative effects.
Having your own business cuts both ways you have freedom, but also more responsibility.
10. Cut out for it = Suited for a particular task or role.
I don’t think he’s cut out for it he gets overwhelmed too easily.
11. Cut-throat business = Extremely competitive and ruthless.
Advertising is a cut-throat business where only the bold survive.
12. Short-cut to success = An easier or faster way to achieve success.
There’s no short-cut to success you have to work hard.
13. Cut back on= To reduce spending.
We need to cut back on expenses if we’re going to stay within budget.
14. Got (your) work cut out = To have a tough challenge ahead.
With three major clients to please, you’ve definitely got your work cut out.
15. Cut someone dead = To ignore someone deliberately.
She tried to greet him, but he cut her dead in front of everyone.
16. Cut him/her down to size = To show someone they are not as important or capable as they think.
After his arrogant speech, she cut him down to size with a single question.
17. Cut the atmosphere = Refers to an extremely tense or awkward situation.
The tension was so thick you could cut the atmosphere with a knife.
18. Cutting it fine = Leaving too little time to do something.
You’re cutting it fine if you plan to leave five minutes before the interview.
19. Cut up about it = To be very upset or distressed.
He was really cut up about it when his dog passed away.
20. Half-cut = Slightly drunk.
He showed up half-cut after drinks with his coworkers.
Next English Idiom Lesson
In our next English idiom lesson, we cover below:
Related Idioms
Here is the list of idioms related to this lesson.
Idiom Part 4 Outline
If you wish to explore all lessons that are covered in HiCafe Idiom Part 4, you can visit the Essential and Popular English idioms- Part 4 page.
English Fluency Resources
If you like to read all of lessons related to English expressions, phrases, idioms, proverbs, slang and words, you can visit our Improve English Fluency page.
