cut across

verb

1. (intr) to be contrary to ordinary procedure or limitations

   opinion on European integration still cuts clean across party lines

2. to cross or traverse, making a shorter route

   she cut across the field quickly

Idioms and Phrases

Go beyond, transcend, as in The new regulations cut across class lines. This figurative use of cut across, which literally means “run through” or “intersect,” dates from the 1920s.

Example Sentences

This desire for change cuts across partisan lines.

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But in recent months Moscow has intensified attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, prompting emergency power cuts across the country.

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More cuts across the TV news business are expected through the end of the year.

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The unrest began just over two weeks ago, after a youth-led movement began protesting against chronic water and power cuts across the country.

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Earlier this year, Amazon said it would rapidly expand its same-day grocery delivery service, while Walmart has imposed price cuts across thousands of products.

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Related Words

• cruise 
• navigate 
• pass over 
• ply 
• sail 
• span 
• traverse