can't cut it

ADJECTIVE

lacking

Synonyms

STRONGEST

flawed inadequate incomplete

STRONG

impaired missing needed needing short

WEAK

coming up short defective deprived of minus not hacking it not making it sans without

Antonyms

WEAK

abundant enough having profuse sufficient

ADJECTIVE

unable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

helpless impotent inadequate incapable not able powerless sidelined unfit weak

WEAK

can't hack it can't make the grade clumsy hog-tied impuissant incapacitated incompetent ineffectual inefficacious inefficient inept inoperative no can do no good not cut out for not equal to not up to out of commission unfitted unqualified unskilled

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able capable competent fit potent qualified strong sufficient

WEAK

adequate skillful talented

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But there were members of the team who were like, ‘No, you can’t cut it — this sequence means so much.’

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 17, 2026

So, I can’t cut it up or freeze it in a block of ice.

From Slate • Jun. 30, 2023

"I just can't cut it too close any more."

From BBC • Jan. 27, 2022

But the margin for error in the rugged NFC West is razor thin, and the Seahawks can’t cut it much closer.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 26, 2021

“I’ve tried, but I just can’t cut it down. I can’t hold the ax any longer.”

From "Where the Red Fern Grows" by Wilson Rawls