Translation guide
The English phrase "cut down" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: reducing amount/consumption, physically cutting something to the ground, and killing someone. Each meaning has its own natural Japanese expressions.
To decrease the quantity, size, or frequency of something, such as expenses, smoking, or workload.
General verb meaning 'to reduce' or 'to decrease'. Used for quantities, numbers, frequency, etc.
I want to cut down on cigarettes.
We need to cut down on expenses.
Means 'to refrain from' or 'to cut back on'. Often used for things like alcohol, sweets, or spending, implying self-restraint.
I'm cutting down on alcohol.
You should cut down on sweets.
Formal term for 'reduction' or 'cutback', often used in business or official contexts (budgets, costs, staff).
It's a plan to cut down costs.
Literally 'reduce the amount'. Used when emphasizing the quantity of something.
I'm cutting down on the amount of food I eat.
To fell a tree or similar tall object by cutting through its base.
To kill or severely wound a person, often in a violent or sudden manner.
Literally 'cut to death'. Used for killing with a blade.
The samurai cut down his enemy.
Means 'shoot down' or 'gun down'. Used for killing with a firearm.
The police officer cut down the criminal.
To mow down or cut down many people at once, as with a sweeping blade or gunfire.
English 'cut down' is often used metaphorically (cut down on smoking). In Japanese, you cannot directly translate 'cut' (切る) for this meaning. Use 減らす or 控える instead.
cut cigarettes (unnatural)
He cut down the tree with an axe.
The soldiers cut down the enemy.