Cut to the chase
/kʌt tuː ðə tʃeɪs/informal, neutralUK · US · AU · IE · CA
What does “Cut to the chase” mean?
Cut to the chase means get directly to the main point without wasting time on unimportant details.
This expression means to stop explaining minor background facts and address the main issue immediately. People often use it when they are busy and need quick answers.
The phrase can sound slightly impatient or direct. It is common at work and in casual conversations, but it might sound rude if you say it to a senior manager or a customer.
When do people say it?
People use this phrase when someone is talking too much and needs to state the most important information.
“We only have five minutes left, so please cut to the chase.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal, neutral. It is most at home in both everyday conversation and professional writing. Most common in UK and US and AU and IE and CA.
Where does it come from?
This phrase comes from the early American film industry. Directors would edit movies to skip boring dialogue and go straight to an exciting chase scene.
Origin confidence: Well documented
How do you say “Cut to the chase” in other languages?
Last reviewed 2026-09-11