Phrasal verb
cut in
To cut in means to interrupt someone who is speaking or doing something.
Meanings
to interrupt someone who is speaking or to join a conversation suddenly
to move in front of someone without waiting your turn, especially in a line
to move suddenly in front of another vehicle while driving
Definition
When you cut in, you start speaking before someone has finished, often to add a comment or stop them. It can also mean to move in front of someone who is waiting, especially in a line or in traffic. The phrase is common in everyday conversation and can sound rude unless it is done politely.
Examples
- I didn’t mean to cut in, but I have a quick question.
- Could you please not cut in while you’re listening to her story?
- He cut in during the discussion and changed the topic.
- They cut in at the front of the line, and everyone noticed.
- She cut in too close on the highway, so the other driver slowed down.
Common mistake
Learners often say "cut off" when they mean "cut in"; "cut in" emphasizes joining or interrupting, while "cut off" emphasizes stopping someone completely.
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.