What are the definitions of “be cut out for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be suitable, have the necessary qualities.
She's not CUT OUT FOR this kind of work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be cut out for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be cut out for is to be suitable or have the necessary qualities for a particular job, task, or situation. It is often used to describe someone's ability or potential to succeed in a specific role or activity.
What are the different verb forms of “be cut out for”?
| Root Verb | be cut out for |
| Third Person Singular Present | is cut out for |
| Present Participle | being cut out for |
| Simple Past | was cut out for |
| Past Participle | been cut out for |
Example
I think he is cut out for a career in teaching.
Example
She is cut out for a leadership position.
Example
He is being cut out for a successful career in sports.
Example
She was cut out for a job in the fashion industry.
Example
He has always been cut out for a career in medicine.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be cut out for”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“be cut out for” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She is cut out for this kind of work.
Example
He wasn't cut out for the military.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“be cut out for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She is cut out for this kind of work.
Example
He wasn't cut out for the military.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be cut out for”?
Be cut out for something
To be naturally suited or well-suited for a particular role, task, or situation.
Example
She is cut out for a career in public relations because of her excellent communication skills.
Not be cut out for something
To not be suitable or lack the necessary qualities for a specific role, task, or situation.
Example
I tried learning to play the guitar, but I'm just not cut out for it.
Good things to know
Does “be cut out for” have an informal or formal tone?
Be cut out for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as job interviews or professional discussions.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “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
