Phrasal verb
cut through
Meanings
to go through something (a place, crowd, forest, etc.), often to reach a destination faster
to move through something that blocks movement, such as traffic, fog, or a crowd
to make something clear and easy to understand by speaking directly or removing confusion
Definition
To cut through means to pass quickly through something or to communicate in a clear, direct way.
Cut through is a phrasal verb with two common meanings. It can mean to go through a physical space or barrier, often by taking a shorter route. It can also mean to make something easier to understand by being clear and direct, especially when there is confusion or noise.
Examples
- I cut through the park to get to the station on time.
- She cut through the crowd and found her friend near the entrance.
- They cut through the confusion by outlining the plan step by step.
- Our headlights cut through the fog as we drove slowly home.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes say "cut across" in situations where the idea is passing through a space or barrier; use "cut through" when you go inside and out the other side (or make something clearer).
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.