To start speaking while someone else is talking, usually without waiting for them to finish.
Please don't cut in while I'm explaining the instructions.
A: I was saying that— B: Sorry to cut in, but I think we need to hurry.
During group discussions, it's important not to cut in when someone else is sharing their opinion.
Common mistake
✗He always cuts in me when I'm talking.
✓He always cuts in when I'm talking. / He always cuts me off.
'Cut in' is intransitive ('cut in while/when'); to interrupt a person, use 'cut someone off'.
Tell it apart
Sorry to cut in, but we're out of time.
interrupt to speak
He cut me off mid-sentence.
stopped me from finishing
Use 'cut in' when someone interrupts a conversation or speech. It's often used in both formal and informal situations.'Cut in' focuses on interrupting by speaking. 'Cut off' can mean to stop someone from speaking, but also has other meanings.
To move your vehicle quickly in front of another car, often without enough space or warning.
A car cut in right in front of me on the highway, and I had to brake hard.
A: Did you see that guy just cut in? B: Yeah, that was really dangerous.
One problem with city driving is that some drivers cut in without signaling, which can cause accidents.
Common mistake
✗A car cut in me on the motorway.
✓A car cut in front of me on the motorway.
Use 'cut in front of' someone when driving — not 'cut in' someone.
Tell it apart
A taxi cut in front of me.
swerved in while driving
Sorry to cut in, but...
interrupt a conversation
This sense is often used when talking about dangerous or impolite driving.'Cut in' is about moving in front of another vehicle suddenly. 'Overtake' means to pass another vehicle, not necessarily in a rude way.