Differences between be cut out for and be on
Be cut out for means to have the necessary skills, abilities, or qualities to do a particular job or activity, while be on means to be participating in or involved in something.
Meanings and Definitions: be cut out for vs be on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Be cut out for
- 1Be suitable, have the necessary qualities.
She's not CUT OUT FOR this kind of work.
Be on
- 1Be functioning ( of machines ).
The computer IS ON.
- 2Take place.
The show IS ON for the next three months.
- 3Take medication or drugs, especially when they affect the person badly.
He IS ON anti - depressants and has become very difficult to please.
- 4Be at the top of one's game, performing very well.
He IS really ON right now- three goals in five minutes!
Usage Examples: be cut out for, be on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
be cut out for
Example
I think he is cut out for a career in teaching.
Example
She is cut out for a leadership position.
be on
Example
The lights are on in the living room.
Example
The television is on in the background.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be cut out for
have what it takes
To possess the necessary skills, abilities, or qualities to do a particular job or activity.
Example
She definitely has what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur.
be suited for
To be appropriate or well-matched for a particular job or activity.
Example
His attention to detail and organizational skills make him suited for a career in project management.
be up to the task
To have the necessary skills, abilities, or qualities to complete a particular job or activity successfully.
Example
I'm not sure if he is up to the task of managing the entire project on his own.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be on
participate in
To take part in or be involved in an activity or event.
Example
I'm excited to participate in the charity run next weekend.
be involved in
To be a part of or have a role in a particular situation or activity.
Example
He is involved in several community organizations and volunteers regularly.
join in
To become a part of or participate in an activity or event with others.
Example
We invited our neighbors to join in the barbecue party in our backyard.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “be”
Phrasal Verbs with “out for”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in be cut out for vs be on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: be cut out for or be on?
In daily conversation, people use be on more often than be cut out for. This is because be on is used for a wide range of situations, from being on a call to being on a team. Be cut out for is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about someone's suitability for a specific job or task. So, while both phrases are used, be on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of be cut out for and be on
Be cut out for and be on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of be cut out for and be on
The tone of be cut out for and be on can differ based on context. Be cut out for often carries a judgmental or critical tone when related to someone's abilities or suitability for a job, while be on typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to participation or involvement in an activity.
be cut out for & be on: Synonyms and Antonyms
Be cut out for
Synonyms
- be suitable for
- be fit for
- be appropriate for
- be right for
- be destined for
- be meant for
- be qualified for
Antonyms
- be unsuitable for
- be unfit for
- be inappropriate for
- be wrong for
- be unqualified for
