cut above

Idioms  

1. Someone or something that is superior to examples of a similar nature, as in This book is a cut above his previous one. This idiom uses cut in the sense of “a higher degree or stage.” [Early 1800s]

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Example Sentences

Nakatani, who has held world titles in three divisions, suffered a cut above his left eye from an accidental clash of heads in the 10th round just as he was riding a wave of momentum.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

But he also thinks Chipotle’s approach makes sense, noting that the Mexican-themed chain is fast-casual to its core, so its identity is indeed tied to being a cut above McDonald’s.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 11, 2026

As they showed against Indianapolis, the 49ers are a cut above.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 24, 2025

Still, James insisted that headquarters employees dress a cut above business casual, requiring jackets and slacks for men.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 11, 2025

I looked around the chapel and was again struck by how many women were wearing skirts cut above the knee.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover