“Cut someone loose” is an idiomatic expression that means to end or sever a relationship or connection with someone, often suddenly or without warning. It implies freeing oneself from the responsibility or burden of the other person, typically because the relationship has become difficult, unproductive, or undesirable. This phrase can be used in both personal and professional contexts, and it suggests a decisive break, letting someone go without further involvement or support. The origin of the phrase likely comes from the nautical world, where cutting the ropes that tie a ship would free it to sail away.
Sample Sentences:
- After years of tolerating his bad behavior, she finally decided to cut him loose.
- The company had to cut loose several employees to reduce costs during the recession.
- He was cut loose from the project after failing to meet his deadlines and responsibilities.
- She decided to cut him loose after he continually disappointed her with his actions.
- The team leader cut loose the uncooperative member to improve team dynamics.
- After the argument, she cut him loose and walked away from the relationship.
- The manager had no choice but to cut loose the underperforming staff members.
- He felt relieved after cutting loose the toxic friends who had been draining his energy.
- When the contract was up, the company decided to cut loose the consultant who wasn’t adding value.
- He knew it was time to cut his old habits loose and start fresh with a new outlook on life.
Synonyms:
- Sever ties
- End the relationship
- Cut off
- Break off
- Discard
- Let go of
- Walk away from
- Abandon
- Dump
- Break up with
Antonyms:
- Hold on to
- Keep
- Retain
- Maintain
- Stick with
- Stay connected
- Support
- Stand by
- Keep in touch with
- Commit to
Phrasal Verbs:
- Cut off (to stop communication or connection with someone)
- Break off (to end a relationship or connection abruptly)
- Let go of (to release or stop being involved with someone or something)
- Walk away from (to leave or abandon a situation or person)
- Disassociate from (to distance oneself from someone or something)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Cut ties (to sever connections or relationships)
- Give the boot (to dismiss or expel someone)
- Dump (to end a relationship or stop supporting someone)
- Throw someone out (to expel someone from a situation or place)
- Give up on (to stop supporting or believing in someone or something)
- Wash your hands of (to disown or stop being responsible for someone or something)
- Send packing (to force someone to leave or dismiss them)
- Drop like a hot potato (to suddenly abandon someone or something)
- Leave in the dust (to abandon someone, leaving them far behind)
- Let someone go (to dismiss or release someone, typically from a job or responsibility)
