cut through

To divide or make an opening in something by passing a sharp tool all the way through it.

• The knife cut through the rope.
• These scissors won’t cut through thick plastic.
• Use a sharp blade to cut through the cardboard.

How to use it: cut through something (This saw can cut through thick branches.)

Similar words: slice through

Common phrases: cut through something, cut through thick wood

To go across a place because that route is shorter than going around it.

• Let’s cut through the park.
• She cuts through the woods on her way home.
• Can we save time by cutting through this alley?

How to use it: cut through + place (We cut through the market to reach the station.)

Similar words: take a shortcut

Common phrases: cut through somewhere, cut through the park

To deal quickly with confusing or unnecessary things that stop you making progress.

• We must cut through the confusion.
• He cut through the paperwork and approved our request.
• Can someone cut through these arguments and suggest a solution?

How to use it: cut through something (Her clear explanation cut through the confusion.)

Similar words: get past, clear away

Common phrases: cut through something, cut through red tape

To get noticed and understood by people despite distractions or competing messages.

• A clear message can cut through.
• Her campaign cut through the noise and reached young voters.
• Will this advertisement cut through to our audience?

How to use it: cut through to someone (A simple message can cut through to busy readers.)

Similar words: get through, make an impact

Common phrases: cut through the noise, cut through to someone