Phrasal verb
be cut out for
To be cut out for something means to have the natural ability or suitable personality to do it well.
Meanings
to have the right qualities to do a particular job or activity well
to not have the right qualities for a particular job or activity (often used in negatives)
Definition
If you are cut out for a job, role, or activity, you have the skills, temperament, or qualities needed to succeed at it. It often suggests a good personal fit, not just training. It is commonly used in negative statements to say something is not a good match for someone.
Examples
- I’m not cut out for night shifts, so I asked to switch to mornings.
- You’re cut out for teaching—you explain things so clearly.
- He isn’t cut out for public speaking, but he writes excellent reports.
- She’s cut out for leadership, and the team trusts her decisions.
- They aren’t cut out for long-distance hiking without more practice.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes say “cut for” instead of “cut out for,” but the correct form is “be cut out for + noun/gerund.”
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.