kʌt tuː ðə tʃeɪs
Business
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- To skip directly to the chase scene in a film
What does "cut to the chase" mean?
- To get to the point without wasting time
- To skip unnecessary details and focus on the essential matter
Examples
- Let me cut to the chase—we can't afford this.
- Cut to the chase: are you in or out?
- I'll cut to the chase and give you the bottom line.
Origin
From the film industry in the 1920s-1940s. Silent movie directors would instruct editors to 'cut to the chase' (the exciting action sequence), skipping slower dialogue scenes.
How to use it
Very common expression for demanding directness. Often used when someone is taking too long to get to the point.
Similar expressions
get to the point
bottom line
no beating around the bush
Opposites
beat around the bush
ramble
Related idioms
- on the same page
In agreement or having the same understanding
- hit the ground running
To start a new job or activity with immediate effectiveness
- in the loop
Included in the flow of information
- the bottom line
The most important point or factor
- get up to speed
To become fully informed about a situation
- think outside the box
To think creatively and unconventionally
Use it in a practice answer
Try "cut to the chase" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.