cutting hair

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   The activity or job of cutting someone's hair, especially as a hairdresser or barber.

   Grammar: Used as a noun phrase; often follows 'be' or verbs like 'enjoy', 'start'.

   Patterns

   • cutting hair
   • cutting someone's hair
   • good at cutting hair

   She earns extra money by cutting hair at home on weekends.

   Cutting hair well takes practice and the right tools.

   He is very good at cutting hair, especially short styles.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   The action of trimming or styling hair, either for oneself or another person.

   Grammar: Often used with 'be' or as a gerund subject: 'Cutting hair is a skill.'

   Patterns

   • cutting hair
   • cutting your own hair
   • cutting hair for someone

   Cutting hair at home can save a lot of money.

   I watched a video about cutting hair before trying it myself.

   Cutting hair for children requires a lot of patience.

Common combinations

good at cutting hair

My aunt is really good at cutting hair.

start cutting hair

He started cutting hair when he was sixteen.

cutting hair professionally

She has been cutting hair professionally for ten years.

cutting hair at home

Cutting hair at home is cheaper but risky.

Synonyms and how they differ

barbering

More formal and specifically about men's haircuts; 'cutting hair' is broader and more everyday.

hairdressing

Refers to the professional activity of cutting and styling hair; 'cutting hair' is more literal and informal.

Word family

haircut noun

The act or result of cutting hair; also the style you get.

hairdresser noun

A person whose job is cutting and styling hair.

barber noun

A person who cuts men's hair.

Commonly confused: cutting hair or haircut?

Practice

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