Understanding 'Cut Out' and 'Cutout' in American English
When discussing the English language, particularly American English, the perception of verbs and nouns can often be ambiguous, especially when it comes to words like 'cut out'/cut out (two words) and 'cutout'/cutout (one word). Understanding the distinction between these forms is crucial for both native and non-native speakers alike.
The Verb 'Cut Out'
When using the verb 'cut out' (i.e., the action of removing something), the correct form is 'cut out' with two words. This phrasal verb is commonly used in sentences such as 'I want to cut out a heart shape.' Here, 'cut out' is functioning as the main verb describing the action being performed.
The Noun 'Cutout'
The noun 'cutout', meaning something that has been cut out of a larger object, is a single word. For example, 'She used scissors to create a heart-shaped cutout in the paper.' In this context, 'cutout' is the name of an object or piece that has been removed.
Distinguishing Between the Two
Frank Dauenhauer provided a clear distinction, stating that 'cut out' is a compound or phrasal verb and is always written as two words, while 'cutout' is a noun and is always written as one word. This rule applies regardless of which variety of English is being used.
A similar question has been asked before. The importance of disambiguating between these forms lies in the correct usage of phrasal verbs and nouns. It is crucial to remember that nouns describing something that has been cut out are singular, while phrasal verbs referring to the action should be written in their correct form.
Usage in Sentences
A shape for you to cut out - This is a verb form and the sentence is used to instruct or request the action of cutting out something.
What lovely cut-out shapes! - Using cut-out in this context adds emphasis and can be written as cut-outs without the hyphen.
My personal preference for hyphens in such contexts makes it easier for the brain to process. The use of a hyphen can enhance clarity and grammatical accuracy.
Additional Examples
Some shapes for you to cut out. - This sentence lists shapes that are to be cut out, emphasizing the noun form of cutout.
What lovely cut-outs! - Once again, using the noun form of cutout.
It is two words, cut out. There is no such word as cutout when it comes to the verb form.
A horse cut out a heifer from the herd. - This phrase demonstrates the phrasal verb form in a less typical context, such as a horse's evasive maneuver.
A little Christmas tree made from colored paper is a cutout. - This phrase uses the noun form to describe a decorative object.