Phrasal verb
cut off
Meanings
To stop the supply of something (like power, water, or internet).
To interrupt someone so they cannot finish speaking.
To block someone or something so they cannot move forward or reach a place.
Definition
To cut off means to stop something from continuing, especially by blocking access, connection, or supply.
To cut off is to stop a flow, connection, or activity so it cannot continue. It is often used for utilities like electricity or water, or for communications like phone calls. It can also mean interrupting someone while they are speaking.
Examples
- They cut off the water while they repaired the pipe.
- I got cut off in the middle of the call when the signal dropped.
- Please don’t cut off your sister when she’s explaining.
- A delivery van cut off our car near the intersection.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "cut off" (stop supply/connection or interrupt) with "cut out" (stop working suddenly).
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.