couper

Senses

1. 1.

   to cut

   to sever or divide with a sharp instrument

2. 2.

   to cut off; to interrupt

   to break a connection, conversation, or supply

3. 3.

   to cross; to go across

   to traverse or intersect a path or road

4. 4.

   to water down; to dilute

   to mix a liquid (wine, etc.) with water

Examples

• "Il a coupé le pain avec un couteau."

  He cut the bread with a knife.

• "On a coupé l'électricité pendant les travaux."

  The electricity was cut off during the construction work.

• "Coupe à travers le parc pour arriver plus vite."

  Cut across the park to get there faster.

Usage

*Couper* is one of the most common French verbs. Common phrases: *couper court* (to cut short), *se couper* (to cut oneself), *couper la parole* (to interrupt someone). Be careful with *couper* + prepositions: *couper à* (to escape, avoid), *couper dans* (to cut into).