Cut it/things fine
verb
To leave very little time or possibility for error, usually referring to timing something.
He cut it fine arriving at the airport just 30 minutes before his flight.
Often appears as...
- cut it too fine
- cut things close
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To barely achieve something within a set limit or condition.
She cut it fine with her grades but still managed to get into her dream university.
Often appears as...
- cut things too fine
- cut it just fine
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To leave very little time or possibility for error, usually referring to timing something.
He cut it fine arriving at the airport just 30 minutes before his flight.
Often appears as...
- cut it too fine
- cut things close
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To barely achieve something within a set limit or condition.
She cut it fine with her grades but still managed to get into her dream university.
Often appears as...
- cut things too fine
- cut it just fine
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Pressure Implied
The phrase often suggests stress or risk from tight scheduling or limited time.
He always cuts it fine, finishing projects just before the deadline.
Pro Tip 2/3Time Management
The phrase can indicate poor time management or an underestimation of necessary time.
She cut it so fine, she had to rush her preparations.
Pro Tip 3/3Consequence Awareness
Using the phrase usually acknowledges a conscious choice with potential negative outcomes.
You're cutting it fine; any delay could mean we'll miss the train.
Pro Tip 1/3Pressure Implied
The phrase often suggests stress or risk from tight scheduling or limited time.
He always cuts it fine, finishing projects just before the deadline.
Pro Tip 2/3Time Management
The phrase can indicate poor time management or an underestimation of necessary time.
She cut it so fine, she had to rush her preparations.
Pro Tip 3/3Consequence Awareness
Using the phrase usually acknowledges a conscious choice with potential negative outcomes.
You're cutting it fine; any delay could mean we'll miss the train.
Pro Tip 1/3Pressure Implied
The phrase often suggests stress or risk from tight scheduling or limited time.
He always cuts it fine, finishing projects just before the deadline.
Pro Tip 2/3Time Management
The phrase can indicate poor time management or an underestimation of necessary time.
She cut it so fine, she had to rush her preparations.
Pro Tip 3/3Consequence Awareness
Using the phrase usually acknowledges a conscious choice with potential negative outcomes.
You're cutting it fine; any delay could mean we'll miss the train.
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