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swath
cut a wide swath
and cut a big swathto seem important; to attract a lot of attention. In social matters, Mrs. Smith cuts a wide swath. Bob cuts a big swath whenever he appears in his military uniform.
cut a (wide) swath
also cut a (wide) swathe1. to attract a lot of interest or attention The two beautiful sisters cut a wide swath through our little town, and every male wanted to take them out. The new game is unusually inventive and has cut a wide swath in the video game market.
2. to cause a lot of destruction, death, or harm in a particular place Violent thunderstorms cut a swath of destruction through the area, blowing down trees and damaging houses.
Etymology: based on the literal meaning of swath ( a line or strip of grass that has been cut)
cut a swath/swathe through something
to cause a lot of destruction, death, or harm in a particular place or among a particular group of people Violent electrical storms cut a swath through parts of the South yesterday. The AIDS epidemic has already cut a swath through the fashion industry.
cut a wide swath
Draw a lot of attention, make a considerable display, as in Although he was new to the company, he cut a wide swath. This metaphoric use of making a big sweep of the scythe in cutting grass survives despite the mechanization of farming and the declining use of the noun swath. [Mid-1800s]
cut a wide swath
To make a big display; draw much attention.