Phrasal verb
cut down on
Meanings
to reduce the amount or frequency of something you consume, use, or do
to reduce spending or the use of resources such as electricity, water, or materials
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Definition
To cut down on something means to reduce how much you use, eat, or do it.
If you cut down on something, you reduce the amount or frequency of it. People often use it for habits, spending, food, or resource use. It suggests doing less, not necessarily stopping completely.
Examples
- I’m trying to cut down on sugar this week.
- You should cut down on screen time before bed.
- He decided to cut down on coffee after lunch.
- She cut down on expenses by cooking at home.
- They want to cut down on plastic by bringing reusable containers.
Common mistake
Learners often say "cut off on" instead of the correct form "cut down on" when they mean reduce.
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.