Example: I will cut you some slack because you worked hard today.
Definition
"To cut someone some slack" means to be less critical or demanding toward someone, often by allowing more freedom or leniency, especially when they are facing difficulties or have made mistakes. It implies giving someone a break or understanding in a challenging situation.
Translations
ser indulgente con alguien
iemand wat speelruimte geven
ser indulgent amb algú
se montrer indulgent envers quelqu'un
jemandem Nachsicht gewähren
Etymology
The phrase "to cut someone some slack" originates from the literal meaning of 'slack' as looseness or lack of tension, such as in a rope or line. To 'cut slack' meant to release or reduce tension. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to mean giving someone more leeway or less pressure in their actions or behavior.
Learn to use this expression actively
"To cut someone some slack" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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