WordLens

cut back

1 of 1verb
/ˈkʌt ˈbæk/
Forms:cuts back,cutting back,cut back,cut back
1

to decrease something such as size or cost, to make it more efficient, economical, or manageable

transitive
  • Faced with financial challenges, the company had to cut back on its workforce.
  • Environmental initiatives aim to encourage people to cut back on energy consumption.
  • In an effort to save money, the family decided to cut back on unnecessary expenses.
  • The government implemented policies to cut back on carbon emissions and combat climate change.
  • The school had to cut back on extracurricular activities due to budget constraints.
Synonyms:
cuttrim downbring downreducetrim backcut downtrim
2

to go back in time

  • In times of stress, some people may emotionally cut back to earlier, simpler stages of their lives.
  • The novel's narrative often cut back to the protagonist's childhood, providing insights into their formative years.
  • Memories can unexpectedly cut back to moments of joy or sorrow, influencing our present emotions.
  • The documentary skillfully used flashbacks to cut back and explore the historical context of the events being portrayed.
Synonyms:
flash back
3

to do or consume less of something such as food or activities, usually to improve overall health

transitive
  • Due to environmental concerns, the city decided to cut back on industrial emissions.
  • Health officials recommended that individuals cut back on their intake of processed foods for better well-being.
  • To promote a healthier work-life balance, the company decided to cut back on overtime hours.
  • The doctor advised him to cut back on sugary snacks to improve his overall health.
Synonyms:
restrictcurbcurtail
4

to cut off the top parts of a tree, bush, or other plant to either reduce their size or help them grow

transitive
  • The gardener advised cutting back the rose bushes in early spring to stimulate new growth.
  • To maintain the hedge's neat appearance, it's essential to cut back the overgrown branches regularly.
  • The orchard owner decided to cut back the fruit trees to ensure a more bountiful harvest the following season.
  • It's advisable to cut back herbs regularly to prevent them from becoming too leggy and to encourage bushier growth.
  • Before winter, many gardeners choose to cut back perennial plants to protect them from frost and promote vitality in the next growing season.
Synonyms:
prunedresslopclipsnipcroptrim