ENGLISH
REFERENCE

final cut

idiom
Meaning

In the movie industry, the final released version of a film.


Origin

disputed origin

From the fact that in the days of physical film for cinema, the strips of film on which various scenes and takes were recorded had to be cut into pieces and spliced together into a resultant composite strip.

Examples
SIMPLE

The director always wants control of the final cut.

CONTEXTUAL

After months of editing, the studio finally approved the final cut for release.

COMPLEX

Despite pressure from producers to shorten the ending, the veteran filmmaker insisted on sole authority over the final cut, preserving his original vision.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    China's final warning

    A warning that carries no real consequences; an empty threat.

  2. 02

    clear cut

    Straightforward, obvious, simple, or basic.

  3. 03

    cut a dash

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

  4. 04

    cut a deal

    To reach a negotiated agreement.

  5. 05

    cut a figure

    To present an image; to make an impression.

  6. 06

    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.

  7. 07

    cut a swath

    Alternative form of cut a wide swath.

  8. 08

    cut a wide swath

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

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