What are the definitions of “be cut up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be upset.
She was very CUT UP about coming second as she thought she deserved to win.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be cut up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be cut up is to feel upset or disappointed about something. It is often used to describe someone's emotional reaction to a negative event or situation.
What are the different verb forms of “be cut up”?
| Root Verb | be cut up |
| Third Person Singular Present | is cut up |
| Present Participle | being cut up |
| Simple Past | was cut up |
| Past Participle | been cut up |
Example
She is cut up about not getting the job.
Example
He is cut up about losing the game.
Example
She is being cut up about the bad news.
Example
He was cut up about the breakup.
Example
She had been cut up about the situation for days.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be cut up”?
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 up” 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 was cut up about the bad news.
Example
He is cut up about the situation.
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 up” 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 was cut up about the bad news.
Example
He is cut up about the situation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be cut up”?
Be cut up about something
To feel upset or disappointed about a specific event or situation.
Example
He is cut up about not being invited to the party.
Good things to know
Does “be cut up” have an informal or formal tone?
Be cut up is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal synonyms like 'distressed' or 'upset' can be used.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “be cut up”?
Synonyms
- distressed
- disappointed
- upset
- heartbroken
- saddened
- grieved
- hurt
