ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cut the umbilical cord

idiom
Meaning

To end a child's overdependence on or overattachment to their parents.


Examples
SIMPLE

It is time for him to cut the umbilical cord and live alone.

CONTEXTUAL

His mother still pays all his bills, but he needs to cut the umbilical cord to become a responsible adult.

COMPLEX

Although the transition to university was difficult, the student eventually cut the umbilical cord and began to manage his own affairs with newfound independence.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    clear cut

    Straightforward, obvious, simple, or basic.

  2. 02

    cut a dash

    To make a display of oneself; to give a conspicuous impression.

  3. 03

    cut a deal

    To reach a negotiated agreement.

  4. 04

    cut a figure

    To present an image; to make an impression.

  5. 05

    cut a rug

    To dance, especially in a vigorous manner and in one of the dance styles of the first half of the twentieth century.

  6. 06

    cut a swath

    Alternative form of cut a wide swath.

  7. 07

    cut a wide swath

    To behave in an expansive, flagrantly showy, or pushy manner, especially in public venues; to exert sweeping influence.

  8. 08

    cut about

    To go around (move from person to person).

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