chop off
To cut something off completely, usually with one strong hit — like cutting off a branch with an axe
Meanings
To remove a body part or appendage by cutting it sharply
"The surgeon had no choice but to chop off the infected finger to stop the spread of gangrene."
"He raised his sword and chopped off the serpent's head with a single blow."
— J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit (paraphrased scene — note: verify exact wording in source)
To cut off a part of a plant or tree, such as a branch or limb
"Dad went into the garden and chopped off all the dead branches from the apple tree."
To cut someone's hair short in a quick, decisive way (informal)
"She sat down and told the hairdresser to just chop off all her hair — she wanted a fresh start."
Commonly used for cutting limbs (of trees or bodies), hair, or other discrete parts. The object can be placed between 'chop' and 'off' (chop it off) or after 'off' (chop off the branch). Has a slightly violent or dramatic connotation.
Commonly used with
Forms
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