Cut somebody some slack
verb phrase
To give someone more freedom or compassion than normal.
I know he forgot to do his homework but his dog just passed away so let's cut him some slack.
Often appears as...
- let's cut him some slack
- should we cut her some slack?
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial, Idiomatic
verb phrase
To give someone more time or another chance.
I know he is late with his report, but his mother is in hospital so cut him some slack.
Often appears as...
- i'll cut you some slack this time
- can you cut me some slack?
Usage tips
General, Colloquial, Idiomatic
verb phrase
To give someone more freedom or compassion than normal.
I know he forgot to do his homework but his dog just passed away so let's cut him some slack.
Often appears as...
- let's cut him some slack
- should we cut her some slack?
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial, Idiomatic
verb phrase
To give someone more time or another chance.
I know he is late with his report, but his mother is in hospital so cut him some slack.
Often appears as...
- i'll cut you some slack this time
- can you cut me some slack?
Usage tips
General, Colloquial, Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Empathy
The phrase often expresses understanding and sympathy for someone's situation.
She's been caring for her sick child, so I'll cut her some slack on the missed deadlines.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Conversations
Primarily used in informal settings among friends, family, or colleagues.
I was a bit harsh on you yesterday – I need to cut you some slack.
Pro Tip 3/3Apology Softener
Adding this phrase may soften a critique or a negative feedback.
You could have done better on this project, but I'm going to cut you some slack since you're new.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Empathy
The phrase often expresses understanding and sympathy for someone's situation.
She's been caring for her sick child, so I'll cut her some slack on the missed deadlines.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Conversations
Primarily used in informal settings among friends, family, or colleagues.
I was a bit harsh on you yesterday – I need to cut you some slack.
Pro Tip 3/3Apology Softener
Adding this phrase may soften a critique or a negative feedback.
You could have done better on this project, but I'm going to cut you some slack since you're new.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Empathy
The phrase often expresses understanding and sympathy for someone's situation.
She's been caring for her sick child, so I'll cut her some slack on the missed deadlines.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Conversations
Primarily used in informal settings among friends, family, or colleagues.
I was a bit harsh on you yesterday – I need to cut you some slack.
Pro Tip 3/3Apology Softener
Adding this phrase may soften a critique or a negative feedback.
You could have done better on this project, but I'm going to cut you some slack since you're new.
Never forget "Cut somebody some slack"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension