crosscut
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈkrɔsˌkʌt//
KK: /ˈkrɔsˌkʌt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To alternate between two or more scenes in a film or narrative, often to create suspense or show simultaneous events.
Example
The director decided to crosscut between the two characters to build tension in the story.
Tense Forms
Past: crosscut
Past Participle: crosscut
Conversation
Have you seen that new film where they crosscut between two different storylines?
Yeah, I loved how they did that! It kept me on the edge of my seat.
Exactly! I think crosscutting really adds tension to the plot.
For sure! It makes the story much more engaging.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
intercut
splice
switch
Antonyms
merge
unify
combine
noun
Definition
A cut or path that goes across something, often used to refer to a type of saw or a shortcut.
Example
The carpenter used a crosscut saw to make precise cuts in the wood.
Conversation
Did you find a good way to get to the park?
Yeah, I took a crosscut path that saved me some time.
That sounds smart! I usually take the longer route.
Root Explanation
Crosscut is formed from "cross" (from Old English "cros", meaning to intersect or go across) and "cut" (from Old English "cuttian", meaning to sever or divide). The word describes the action of cutting across something, typically in a direction that intersects the original grain or line.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'intersects' ('cross') and 'divides' ('cut') — that's what crosscut means.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.