cut it up
B1 informal mixed transitive
In simple words
To cut something into many pieces, or (slang) to dance or perform very energetically.
Literal meaning: To cut an object up into smaller pieces.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To cut something into multiple smaller pieces.
"Cut it up into equal portions before you serve it to the children."
Grammar: mixed
2 C1
idiomatic
slang
American slang for dancing energetically and showing off one's moves.
"They really cut it up on the dance floor at the wedding — everyone stopped to watch."
Grammar: mixed
Usage notes
The 'it' is often fixed in the idiomatic sense. In American slang, especially in hip-hop and dance cultures, 'cut it up' or 'cut up' means to dance with great energy and skill. In the literal sense, it is straightforward.
Commonly used with
food paper dance floor stage scissors knife
Forms
Base
cut it up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cuts it up
he/she/it
Past simple
cut it up
yesterday
Past participle
cut it up
have + pp
-ing form
cutting it up
continuous
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