Lop off

Pro Tip 1/3

Physical Action

Used when physically cutting off parts with tools like scissors, knives, or saws.

After the storm, we had to lop off the damaged limbs of the tree.

Pro Tip 2/3

Not Gentle

Suggests a somewhat forceful or abrupt action, not precise or careful.

He lopped off the end of the rope with a single swing of the axe.

Pro Tip 3/3

Metaphorical Use

Can be used metaphorically to mean remove parts of something non-physical, like a budget.

The company had to lop off several million dollars from its advertising budget.