cut out crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving the 'cut out crossword clue' puzzle. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your crossword journey.
Solutions for "cut out crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LOP: To cut off (a branch, limb, or other projection). This often implies cutting something short or removing a part.
AXE: To abruptly terminate or remove, often implying a severe 'cutting out' from a budget or plan.
4 Letters
OMIT: To leave out or exclude (someone or something), either intentionally or forgetfully. This fits 'cut out' in the sense of removing from a list or group.
CROP: To cut short or trim, especially in photography or horticulture. It can also mean to stop abruptly, as in 'crop out of existence'.
PARE: To trim (something) by cutting away its outer edges. Implies a gradual or careful removal.
6 Letters
EXCISE: To remove by cutting, especially surgically. This implies a precise and deliberate removal.
DELETE: To remove or erase (data, a section of text, etc.). A common digital or editorial 'cut out'.
REDUCE: To diminish or make smaller. 'Cutting out' can be a method of reduction, e.g., cutting out expenses.
More About "cut out crossword clue"
'Cut out' is a remarkably versatile phrase, making it a favorite for crossword constructors. Its meaning can range from the literal act of severing with scissors to more abstract concepts like omission, cessation, or even fashioning. When you encounter this clue, it's crucial to consider the context of the puzzle, the number of letters in the answer, and any crossing letters you've already solved.
For example, 'cut out' can suggest removing a section of text (DELETE, OMIT), removing a growth surgically (EXCISE), reducing something to its essentials (PARE, LOP), or even being well-suited for a role (ASSET, although less common for 'cut out'). The trick is to identify which specific nuance the clue is aiming for. Are you cutting out a bad habit, cutting out a picture, or cutting out a part of a conversation?
Understanding these subtle differences is key to mastering such clues. Always allow your mind to explore all possible interpretations before settling on one. This approach not only helps you solve the current puzzle but also sharpens your overall crossword-solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms: For verbs like 'cut out', think of all possible synonyms for 'remove', 'omit', 'cease', or 'form'. Keep a mental thesaurus handy.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most powerful constraint. It immediately rules out many possibilities and narrows down your choices significantly.
- Use Crossing Letters: Never underestimate the power of letters from intersecting words. They will often confirm or deny your hunches, leading you directly to the correct answer.
- Think Beyond the Literal: Crossword clues often use wordplay, puns, or less common definitions. 'Cut out' might not mean literally cutting; it could mean 'suited' or 'designed for'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'cut out' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'cut out' is a versatile clue that can refer to various actions, including: removing a part, omitting something, excising surgically, tailoring or shaping (as in 'cut out a dress'), or even ceasing an activity ('cut out the noise'). The specific answer depends heavily on the word length and other crossing letters.
How can I figure out the right answer for 'cut out'?
Start by checking the number of letters required. Then, consider common synonyms for 'remove' or 'omit' that fit that length. Also, think about less literal meanings like 'fashion' or 'stop'. Look at the letters you already have from crossing words; these are crucial hints to narrow down the possibilities and confirm your answer.
Are there common pitfalls when solving 'cut out' clues?
The main pitfall is getting stuck on one interpretation. 'Cut out' is often used metaphorically. For instance, it could imply 'to omit' (OMIT, DELETE), 'to cease' (STOP, HALT), or even 'to create a shape' (FASHION, SHAPE). Always consider the broadest range of meanings for multi-purpose verbs like 'cut'.