Cut a swathe through something
verb phrase
To go or move through something, such as an area or place, very quickly, forcefully, or destructively.
The hurricane cut a swathe through the town, leaving destruction in its path.

Often appears as...
- cut a swathe through the city
- cut a swathe through the forest
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To have a significant effect or influence on something in often a harmful or damaging way.
The new legislation cut a swathe through the healthcare industry.

Often appears as...
- cut a swathe through the economy
- cut a swathe through society
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To go or move through something, such as an area or place, very quickly, forcefully, or destructively.
The hurricane cut a swathe through the town, leaving destruction in its path.

Often appears as...
- cut a swathe through the city
- cut a swathe through the forest
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To have a significant effect or influence on something in often a harmful or damaging way.
The new legislation cut a swathe through the healthcare industry.

Often appears as...
- cut a swathe through the economy
- cut a swathe through society
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2

Disaster Imagery
The phrase often paints a picture of major destruction, similar to a natural disaster.

The forest fire cut a swathe through the national park, turning green landscapes to ash.
Physical Movement
It can describe someone moving through a space, clearing a visible path.

The star football player cut a swathe through the opposing team, scoring effortlessly.
Strong Visual
Use this phrase when you want to create a strong visual impact in the listener's mind.

The dancer cut a swathe through the stage with her dynamic and captivating performance.
Disaster Imagery
The phrase often paints a picture of major destruction, similar to a natural disaster.

The forest fire cut a swathe through the national park, turning green landscapes to ash.
Physical Movement
It can describe someone moving through a space, clearing a visible path.

The star football player cut a swathe through the opposing team, scoring effortlessly.
Strong Visual
Use this phrase when you want to create a strong visual impact in the listener's mind.

The dancer cut a swathe through the stage with her dynamic and captivating performance.
Disaster Imagery
The phrase often paints a picture of major destruction, similar to a natural disaster.

The forest fire cut a swathe through the national park, turning green landscapes to ash.
Physical Movement
It can describe someone moving through a space, clearing a visible path.

The star football player cut a swathe through the opposing team, scoring effortlessly.
Strong Visual
Use this phrase when you want to create a strong visual impact in the listener's mind.

The dancer cut a swathe through the stage with her dynamic and captivating performance.
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