# cut swathes

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/cut-swathes
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Synonym of cut a wide swath.

## Examples

- The heavy tractor cut swathes through the tall grass.
- The new manager cut swathes through the department, firing many people to reduce costs quickly.
- The invading army cut swathes through the countryside, leaving nothing but destruction in their wake.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.