crossword clue cut off – All Crossword Answers

Q: Why does 'cut off' have so many different answers in crosswords?

The phrase 'cut off' is highly versatile and can imply physical separation (like cutting a limb), stopping a supply, ending communication, or isolating something. Crossword setters leverage this range of meanings to create diverse clues, requiring solvers to consider context and letter count.

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "cut off" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. This page provides all known solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzling skills.

Solutions for "crossword clue cut off" by Letter Count

3 Letters

CUT: To separate or remove something using an edge or tool. A direct and common answer for 'cut off'.

LOP: To cut off branches or parts of something, especially from a tree, often for maintenance.

4 Letters

HALT: To stop the progress or movement of something, effectively cutting it off from continuing.

5 Letters

SEVER: To cut off a part from a whole, typically sharply or completely, implying a clean separation.

BLOCK: To obstruct or impede the passage of something, like cutting off a path or supply.

6 Letters

DETACH: To separate or disconnect something from something larger or from something else it was joined to.

7 Letters

ISOLATE: To set apart or remove someone or something from others completely, cutting them off from interaction.

8 Letters

AMPUTATE: To surgically cut off a limb or digit, usually due to injury or disease.

TRUNCATE: To shorten something by cutting off the top or end, often referring to text or a sequence.

10 Letters

DISCONNECT: To break the connection of or between things, such as a phone line or a supply source.

More About "crossword clue cut off"

"Cut off" is a wonderfully versatile phrase in the world of crosswords, making it a favorite for setters and a challenging one for solvers. Its meanings can range from a literal physical action, like using a knife to sever a rope, to more abstract concepts such as interrupting a conversation, stopping a supply of resources, or isolating someone from a group. This ambiguity is precisely what makes it a powerful clue.

When you encounter "cut off" in a puzzle, consider the context provided by the rest of the clue. Is it hinting at a surgical procedure? A gardening task? Or perhaps a sudden cessation of a relationship or communication? The number of letters in the answer will often be your best guide, pointing you towards specific verbs that precisely match one of these nuanced meanings. Always think about synonyms for 'cut' and 'off' both individually and in combination.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Context is Key: For clues like "cut off," always consider if the clue refers to physical separation, cessation of supply, or ending communication. The surrounding words in the clue are vital hints.
Letter Count Guidance: Use the given letter count to narrow down possibilities significantly. A 3-letter answer will be very different from an 8-letter one, guiding you towards words like CUT vs. AMPUTATE.
Synonym Brainstorming: Think of synonyms for "cut" (e.g., sever, slice, trim) and "off" (e.g., apart, disconnected, stopped). Then, try to find single words that capture the combined meaning.
Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, intersecting words provide crucial letters that help confirm an answer you're unsure about, especially when a clue has multiple potential meanings.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does 'cut off' have so many different answers in crosswords?

The phrase "cut off" is highly versatile and can imply physical separation (like cutting a limb), stopping a supply, ending communication, or isolating something. Crossword setters leverage this range of meanings to create diverse clues, requiring solvers to consider context and letter count.

How do I know if 'cut off' refers to a physical action or a more abstract concept?

Pay attention to the surrounding words in the clue. If it mentions "limb" or "branch," it's likely physical. If it refers to "supply," "communication," or "relationship," it's probably abstract. The required letter count will also strongly guide you towards specific answers.

Are there common prefixes or suffixes related to 'cut off' in crossword answers?

While not direct prefixes/suffixes, many answers for 'cut off' imply removal or separation (e.g., DE-tach, DIS-connect). Recognizing these roots can sometimes help, especially for longer words. Also, look for words that simply mean 'to end' or 'to stop' if the clue implies cessation.