incise
/ɪnˈsaɪz/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To cut into a surface with a sharp tool, especially to make a pattern, mark, or shape. It is a careful, precise kind of cutting.
- The artist incised a line into the metal.
- The doctor incised the skin carefully.
- Ancient symbols were incised on the stone.
Adinary Nuance
Incise is more precise than cut. It suggests a controlled, often deep cut made with a sharp tool. Writers choose it in medical, artistic, or technical contexts, not for everyday cutting. It sounds more formal than slice or carve.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- rạch
- Spanish
- incidir
- Chinese
- 切开
- Japanese
- 切開する
- Korean
- 절개하다
Etymology
From Latin incisus, past participle of incidere, meaning “to cut into.” It entered English in the late Middle Ages through learned writing.
Common phrases
incise a lineincise the skinincised markings
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is incise a common everyday word?
- No. It is more common in medical, scientific, and formal writing.
- What is the difference between incise and cut?
- Incise means to cut into something in a careful, precise way.
- Can I use incise in speaking?
- Yes, but it may sound formal or technical in normal conversation.
- Is incise used in medicine?
- Yes. Doctors may incise tissue or skin during a procedure.