ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cut across

phr. v..
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford

phr. v.. to take a shorter way through a place instead of following the main path; it can also mean to affect many different groups of people.

phr. v.. to pass through or across a physical area to shorten a route; figuratively, to transcend or affect multiple categories, social groups, or boundaries.


SIMPLE

We can cut across the park to get home faster.

CONTEXTUAL

The new tax law will cut across all social classes, affecting both the rich and the poor.

COMPLEX

The architect designed a series of glass walkways that cut across the central atrium, connecting the two wings of the gallery.

Particles
across
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
cut + across + object
Usage

usually followed by a noun representing a physical space or a social boundary.

Teaching tip

distinguish between the literal movement sense and the figurative 'transcend' sense; the figurative use is common in political and academic discussions.

Pitfall

He cut the field across.He cut across the field.this phrasal verb is inseparable when it means taking a shortcut; the object must follow the particle.

© 2026 English Reference