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Dictionary.com
Definitions

cut back

VERB
economize
Synonyms
STRONGEST
curb curtail cut down decrease lessen lower pare prune reduce retrench shorten slash trim
WEAK
abbreviate abridge check clip cut mark down mark off shave
Antonyms
STRONGEST
develop enlarge expand extend grow increase lengthen raise strengthen
WEAK
spend squander waste

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.

Postal Service have reached a new package-handling agreement, according to people familiar with the matter, after Amazon threatened to drastically cut back on the number of packages it sends through the struggling agency.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

If they do cut back, businesses that depend on that spending could reduce hours and head count.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

"We just have to continue to cut back and make savings in other areas to facilitate the juggernaut that is Rightmove," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

If consumers have to spend more for gasoline, they will cut back on discretionary spending.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

He says he’s trying to cut back on travel, at least until Mom feels better, but I have seen zero evidence of that.

From "A Place at the Table" by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan