cut down - Definition & Meaning

cut down

Third Person

cuts down

Present Participle

cutting down

Past Tense

cut down

Past Participle

cut down

to cut through something at its base in order to make it fall

transitive

The lumberjacks had to cut down the old oak tree to clear space for the new construction project.
Environmentalists protested the decision to cut down a grove of ancient trees for the development of a shopping mall.
The city had to cut down several diseased trees to prevent the spread of the infection to healthier ones.
In preparation for the storm, residents were advised to cut down weakened or precarious branches from their trees.
The lumberjack skillfully cut down trees with powerful swings of his ax.

Synonyms:

to reduce the amount, size, or number of something

transitive

In an effort to reduce expenses, the company had to cut down its workforce.
The government implemented measures to cut down carbon emissions and combat climate change.
Facing a tight schedule, she had to cut down the length of her presentation.
I need to cut down on sugar to improve my health.
The company has cut down production to meet environmental goals.

Synonyms:

(in sports or games) to block a player and stop them from moving forward or making progress

transitive

The defender managed to cut down the striker before he could reach the goal.
The opposing team strategically cut down the forward, preventing a potential scoring opportunity.
The linebacker's quick reaction allowed him to cut down the quarterback's pass attempt.
In a critical moment of the game, the goalkeeper skillfully cut down the opponent's shot with a brilliant save.
The coach emphasized the importance of teamwork in order to cut down the opposition's key players effectively.

Synonyms:

to cause something to fall by delivering a forceful blow, typically with the intent of bringing it to the ground

transitive

The storm's powerful winds threatened to cut down utility poles lining the street.
The boxer aimed to cut down his opponent with a well-timed punch to the body.
The medieval knight managed to cut down his adversary with a decisive swing of his sword.
The strong gusts of wind threatened to cut down the fragile tent during the storm.

Synonyms:

to limit or avoid certain types of food or ingredients for health or dietary reasons

transitive

Concerned about cholesterol levels, she decided to cut down on her intake of fatty foods.
The doctor recommended that he cut down on sugary snacks to manage his blood sugar levels.
Many people choose to cut down on processed foods as part of a healthier eating regimen.
To support her fitness goals, she made a conscious effort to cut down on refined carbohydrates.
The decision to cut down on caffeine and alcohol contributed to his overall well-being.