# cut down on

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cut-down-on
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to do or use something less often, usually to improve your health or save money.

For teachers: to reduce the consumption, frequency, or quantity of something; typically used in the context of dietary habits or expenditures.

## Examples

- I am trying to cut down on coffee.
- The doctor told him he needs to cut down on sugar to lower his blood pressure.
- The government has introduced new legislation aimed at forcing major industrial plants to cut down on their carbon emissions over the next decade.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I need to cut down my salt." but "I need to cut down on my salt." — the preposition 'on' is essential when you mention the thing you are reducing.

## Usage notes

- this is a three-part phrasal verb that must be followed by an object.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'cut out' (to stop completely) to help students understand that 'cut down on' implies a reduction rather than total elimination.

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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.