Cut the Cheese: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
November 8, 2023

"Cut the cheese" is slang for passing gas or farting. It is usually used as a joke or an insult, especially when someone makes a loud or smelly fart in public.

In short:

  • "Cut the cheese" is a slang term for farting.

What Does "Cut the Cheese" Mean?

"Cut the cheese" means to fart or release intestinal gas. It is a euphemism that avoids saying the word "fart" directly, which some people may find vulgar or offensive. However, the phrase is not very polite either, and it may cause laughter or disgust depending on the situation and the audience.

Where Does "Cut the Cheese" Come From?

The origin of the phrase "cut the cheese" is unclear, but one theory explains that it comes from the fact that some cheeses have a strong and unpleasant smell released when cut or sliced. This smell can be similar to the odor of a fart, especially if the cheese is old or rotten. Therefore, cutting the cheese could be seen as a metaphor for farting.

10 Examples of "Cut the Cheese" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in sentences:

  • Holy cow. He cut the cheese and then laughed hysterically.
  • Oh, snap. He cut the cheese so loudly that everyone heard it.
  • Oh my gosh. She always cuts the cheese when she eats beans.
  • She was offended when he asked her if she had cut the cheese.
  • Oh, for God's sake. Who cut the cheese in here? It smells awful!
  • She cut the cheese and then sprayed some perfume to cover it up.
  • He cut the cheese and then pretended it was someone else. What a kack.
  • He tried to blame his dog for cutting the cheese, but we all knew it was him.
  • She was so embarrassed when she accidentally cut the cheese during her presentation.
  • He thought cutting the cheese in front of his friends was funny, but they were not amused.

Examples of "Cut the Cheese" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has been used in various forms of pop culture:

  • In the 2013 video game Grand Theft Auto V, there is a mission where Trevor Philips says: "Cut your engines and await instruction," then "cuts the cheese," causing Michael De Santa to say: "Oh fuck this."
  • "Who Cut the Cheese?" is a book by Mason Brown, published in 2000, that parodies the best-selling book Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson. The book uses a humorous fable to teach the lesson of "surviving change by shifting the blame."
  • "Cut the Cheese" is a short comedy by Ms. Michelle, released in 2018. The film is about a group of friends with a farting contest at a party and the following hilarious consequences.

Other Ways to Say "Cut the Cheese"

Here are some synonyms and alternative expressions for this idiom:

  • Blow off
  • Break ass
  • Cut one loose
  • Fart
  • Flatulate
  • Let one go
  • Pass wind
  • Poot
  • Trump

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Cut the Cheese"

Here are some common questions that people may have about this idiom:

  • What does "cut the cheese" mean?

"Cut the cheese" is slang for passing gas or farting. It is usually used as a joke or an insult, especially when someone makes a loud or smelly fart in public.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "cut the cheese"?

The origin of the phrase "cut the cheese" is unclear, but one theory explains that it comes from the fact that some cheeses have a strong and unpleasant smell released when cut or sliced. This smell can be similar to the odor of a fart, especially if the cheese is old or rotten. Therefore, cutting the cheese could be seen as a metaphor for farting.

  • Is "cut the cheese" rude or polite?

Most people consider the phrase "cut the cheese" rude or impolite. Using it in formal or professional settings or with people who may be offended by it is not appropriate. It is usually used as a joke or an insult among friends or family members with a sense of humor.

  • Are there alternative phrases for "cut the cheese"?

Yes, there are many euphemisms for farting, including "pass gas," "break wind," "let one rip," or simply "fart."

  • Why do people use humorous idioms like "cut the cheese" for something as ordinary as passing gas?

Such idioms are used to make light of an otherwise awkward or embarrassing bodily function, adding humor to the situation.

  • Can "cut the cheese" be offensive to some people?

Yes, it can be offensive to some people, especially in formal or sensitive settings. It's essential to be mindful of your audience when using such phrases.

  • Are there cultural variations of this idiom?

Yes, different cultures have their own idioms for farting. For example, in the UK, people might say "trump" or "parp" instead of "cut the cheese.

  • Is there a proper time and place to "cut the cheese"?

It's best to avoid using this phrase in formal or professional settings, as it's considered impolite. It's more suitable for informal or humorous contexts.

  • Are there any idiomatic expressions related to "cut the cheese" in other languages?

Yes, many languages have their own idiomatic expressions for farting, often involving references to wind or noise.

  • Can "cut the cheese" be used in a lighthearted or joking manner among friends?

Yes, among close friends with a good sense of humor, using this phrase can be playful and funny. However, always be aware of your audience and use it with discretion.

Final Thoughts About "Cut the Cheese"

The idiom "cut the cheese" is slang for farting. It is usually used as a joke or an insult, especially when someone makes a loud or smelly fart in public.

Some basic information about this idiom is:

  • It comes from the fact that some cheeses have a strong odor or noise when cut.
  • Using it in formal or professional settings is not very polite or appropriate.
  • It is often used humorously or rudely to comment on someone's fart.
  • It has some related expressions and synonyms that can be used interchangeably.
  • It has appeared in various forms of popular culture, such as movies, TV shows, books, games, etc.

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