Phrasal verb
cut in
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
To cut in means to interrupt someone who is speaking or doing something.
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.