If you have ever been curious about the correct past tense of cut, this article will clear that up plus give you a look into the history of the word, the definition, and everything else you could want to learn about the word. Since cut is not a regular verb, it can be particularly difficult for ESL students to learn this English language concept. Thankfully, we are here to help you master American English and impress your English teacher!
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to penetrate with or as if with an edged instrument
cut one’s hand with a knife
to hurt the feelings of
Her sarcasm cut him to the quick.
to strike sharply with a cutting effect
cut him across the legs with a whip
to strike (a ball) with a glancing blow that imparts a reverse spin
cut a tennis ball with an inclined racket
to experience the growth of (a tooth) through the gum
The toddler is cutting a tooth.
to harm (oneself) by making cuts or scratches on one’s body
The reasons given for self-inflicted violence indicate that it is a way of relieving intolerable feelings. When cutting themselves, women (and sometimes men) report that they do not feel any pain. — Deborah Feller
How Do You Conjugate Cut?
Here are the other verb conjugations of the word cut including the past tense verb forms:
Base Form (Infinitive/Simple Present Tense): Cut
Simple Past Tense: Cut
Past Participle: Cut
Third Person Singular: He/she/it cuts
Second Person Singular: You cut
First Person Plural: We cut
Present Participle/Gerund: Am Cutting
Future Tense: Will cut
Past Perfect Tense: Had cut
Present Perfect Tense: Have cut
The History and Origin of the Word
The word cut is a very old word that has been used for centuries. There are many meanings of the word and the word can be used as a verb, noun, or adjective. The Old English word for cut is cyttan from the North Germanic word kut meaning to cut. In the 14th century, the word was used to mean to make or fashion by cutting or carving and to intersect or cross. In the 15th century, it was used as abridge or shorten by omitting a part. Throughout the centuries, it picked up several different meanings and is used in lots of figurative sayings such as: to cut down to size(reduce to suitable dimensions), to cut in(suddenly join in conversation, interrupt), to cut up(cut in pieces), to cut short(curtail, interrupt), to cut a feather(to move so fast as to make water foam under the bow), to cut and run(to make off suddenly), to cut teeth(have the teeth grow through the gums), to cut both ways(have a good and bad effect), to cut loose(begin to act freely), and to cut it out(cut it out! “Stop! That’s enough).
Synonyms of Cut
Gash- a deep long cut in the flesh
Incise- to carve (something, such as an inscription) into a surface
Rip- to tear or split apart or open
Shear- to cut with something sharp
Slash- to lash out, cut, or thrash about with or as if with an edged blade
Slice- to cut with or as if with a knife
Slit- a long narrow cut or opening
Cutting- something cut or cut off or out
Example Sentences With the Word Cut
Verb
He uses the ax to cut wood.
The meat is so tender you can cut it with a fork.
Cut along the dotted line.
The saw easily cuts through metal.
She cut into the melon with a knife.
I cut myself while shaving.
I had a cut finger.
We were fighting, and he tried to cut me with his knife.
Pieces of broken glass cut her face and arms.
Noun
Make a few small cuts in the crust to let the air escape.
He came home covered in cuts and bruises.
Further cuts in spending are needed.
You’ll have to make a few cuts in your manuscript if you want us to publish it.
Next time you need to write the word cut, you will be well prepared for everything you need to know what it is and how to use it efficiently. You should feel confident with the different conjugations, the history of the word, and the definition.
Kevin Miller is a growth marketer with an extensive background in Search Engine Optimization, paid acquisition and email marketing. He is also an online editor and writer based out of Los Angeles, CA. He studied at Georgetown University, worked at Google and became infatuated with English Grammar and for years has been diving into the language, demystifying the do's and don'ts for all who share the same passion! He can be found online here.
Kevin
November 15, 2020
What is The Past Tense of...
