The phrase "cuts into" is spelled using the phonemes /kʌts/ for "cuts" and /ˈɪntuː/ for "into". The "cuts" phoneme starts with a voiced velar plosive /k/ followed by an unstressed short vowel /ʌ/ and ends with an unvoiced dental fricative /s/. The "into" phoneme begins with a stress syllable featuring a short vowel /ɪ/, followed by an unvoiced alveolar plosive /t/ and the diphthong /uː/. Together, the word spells proper pronunciation for the action of "cuts into".
Cuts into is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings depending on the context. Generally, it can be defined as the act of making incisions or slices into something. However, when used figuratively, it takes on a more abstract and metaphorical sense.
In a literal sense, cuts into refers to the physical act of dividing or separating an object by making incisions or slices into it. For example, a chef cuts into a piece of meat to check its doneness or a sculptor cuts into clay to shape it into a desired form.
In a figurative sense, cuts into signifies a significant impact on a particular area or activity, often resulting in a reduction or interference with something else. It implies that one thing is encroaching upon another, usually disrupting its progress or dominance. For instance, if a rival company starts offering better deals and prices, they may be said to "cut into" another company's market share. Similarly, if unexpected expenses cause a decrease in profits, they can be said to "cut into" a business's revenue.
Furthermore, cuts into can also denote the interruption or disturbance of a planned schedule or designated time. For instance, if an urgent matter arises during a scheduled meeting, it is said to "cut into" the allotted time for that meeting.
Overall, the phrase cuts into encompasses both literal and figurative meanings, describing the actions of physically dividing something or the impact of encroachment, reduction, or interference.
The phrase "cuts into" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of common English words. "Cuts" is derived from the Old English word "cyttan", meaning "to cut" or "to divide". "Into" comes from the Old English word "intō", which denotes movement or direction towards the inside or within something. When combined, "cuts into" simply refers to the act of making an incision or dividing something by entering into its substance.