recortar
/rekoɾˈtaɾ/
The English phrase 'cut out' can be translated into Spanish as recortar. Wiktionary also lists cortar.
Meaning: to separate into parts with or as if with a sharp-edged instrument, sever (verb)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| recortar | /rekoɾˈtaɾ/ |
| cortar | /koɾˈtaɾ/ |
The verb recortar is used when you want to separate something into parts or extract a specific shape from a material, typically using a sharp-edged instrument. It can also mean to trim edges.
Which one should you use?
While cortar is the general verb used for the act of cutting, recortar specifically implies the intent to extract a specific piece, shape or to trim a material. Use cortar for general cutting and recortar when you are cutting out a particular shape.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Recortar is a transitive verb, which means it is typically used with a direct object that represents the material being cut.
How do you pronounce it?
/rekoɾˈtaɾ/
Did you know?
- The word cortar can be used as a way to describe a phone call that has been disconnected. If a call drops unexpectedly, a speaker might say the line se cortó.
- The Spanish verb cortar is a direct relative of the English word 'curtail', as both share a root meaning to shorten or reduce.
- While recortar is used for cutting out shapes, it is also the standard verb used in Spanish to describe 'trimming' or 'reducing' a budget or expenses.
Examples in context
- El gerente decidió cortar los gastos innecesarios.The manager decided to cut out unnecessary expenses.
- La compañía decidió suprimir algunas secciones del informe anual.The company decided to cut out some sections of the annual report.
- Es necesario eliminar las malas prácticas en el lugar de trabajo.It is necessary to cut out bad practices in the workplace.
- Voy a recortar mis gastos para ahorrar dinero.I'm going to cut out my expenses to save money.
- He decidido dejar de fumar.I have decided to cut out smoking.
- Decidimos prescindir de las bebidas alcohólicas en la cena.We decided to cut out alcoholic beverages at dinner.
- Vamos a omitir la parte no relevante en nuestro informe.We're going to cut out the irrelevant part in our report.
- Recorta la figura de la revista.Cut out the figure from the magazine.
- Tengo que recortar estas figuras de papel.I have to cut out these paper figures.
- Puedes recortar el patrón de la tela.You can cut out the fabric pattern.
- Ella usó tijeras para recortar la foto.She used scissors to cut out the photo.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Lucía are working on an art project together.
- Alejandro¿Me ayudas a recortar este círculo?Can you help me cut out this circle?
- LucíaClaro, pásame las tijeras, Alejandro.Sure, pass me the scissors, Alejandro.
- AlejandroTen cuidado al recortar el borde.Be careful when cutting out the edge.
- LucíaNo te preocupes, lo haré con cuidado.Don't worry, I will do it carefully.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cut out” translations and entries recortar, cortar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cortar, recortar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
