The verb "cortarse" means to cut oneself or to cut (something) off. In the context of idiomatic expressions, it can also imply stopping or refraining from doing something, particularly in actions that may be socially inappropriate. This word is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, with a slight preference for oral speech due to its informal nature.
El niño se cortó el dedo mientras hacía manualidades.
The boy cut his finger while doing crafts.
A veces, es mejor cortarse y no hablar en ciertas situaciones.
Sometimes, it is better to cut oneself off and not speak in certain situations.
Si te cortas de la comida, podrías sentirte mejor.
If you cut yourself off from food, you might feel better.
"Cortarse" features in various idiomatic expressions that illustrate its flexible meanings. Here are some examples:
Example: A veces, es necesario cortarse la lengua para evitar conflictos.
Sometimes, it is necessary to cut one’s tongue to avoid conflicts.
Cortarse las venas (en sentido figurado).
To cut one’s veins (figuratively).
Meaning: To feel deep sadness or despair.
Example: Ella estaba tan triste que parecía que se quería cortar las venas.
She was so sad that it seemed like she wanted to cut her veins.
No cortarse un pelo.
Not to cut a hair.
Meaning: To not hold back one’s opinion or feelings.
Example: A él no le importa y nunca se corta un pelo al hablar.
He doesn’t care and never holds back when speaking.
Cortarse con alguien.
To cut oneself off from someone.
Meaning: To end a relationship or communication with someone.
The word "cortarse" comes from the Latin "currere" (to cut). The prefix "co-" indicates a reflexive form, turning the action back on the subject, making it mean that the subject performs the action to themselves.
In summary, "cortarse" is a versatile verb that has various meanings and is illustratively employed within idiomatic phrases in the Spanish language. Its relationships with emotions and interpersonal dynamics further underscore its significance in everyday communication.