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B1At the Dentist

Cut Down on Sugar: Dentist's Advice

Phrasal Verb: cut down on |Grammar: Imperative

Objective

Students will learn how to use the phrasal verb 'cut down on' in imperative sentences to give advice about reducing sugar intake at the dentist.

Article

When you visit the dentist, you often hear advice to cut down on sugary foods and drinks. Sugar is one of the main causes of tooth decay. To keep your teeth healthy, cut down on sweets, chocolate, and fizzy drinks. The dentist might say, 'Cut down on sugary snacks between meals.' This advice is important because sugar feeds the bacteria that cause cavities. Also, cut down on sugary drinks like soda and fruit juices. Instead, drink more water. If you cut down on sugar, your teeth will be stronger and less likely to get cavities. Remember, cut down on sugar today to avoid problems tomorrow. Follow your dentist's advice and make a habit of cutting down on sugar for a healthier smile.

Grammar Explanation

Meaning

'Cut down on' means to reduce the amount of something you do or consume.

Grammar Note

Imperative sentences give commands or advice and usually start with the base form of the verb, like 'Cut down on sugar.'

Usage Tips

  • Use 'cut down on' when you want to talk about reducing something.
  • In imperatives, omit the subject 'you' for direct advice.
  • Use it to give polite but clear instructions or suggestions.

Examples

Cut down on sweets to protect your teeth.

Advice from the dentist about sweets.

Cut down on fizzy drinks after meals.

Reducing soda intake for better dental health.

Cut down on sugar to avoid cavities.

General advice about sugar and tooth decay.

Cut down on snacks between meals.

Advice to reduce snacking habits.

Cut down on sugary juices and drink water instead.

Suggestion to replace sugary drinks.

Dialogue

Context: A dentist advises a patient on reducing sugar intake to improve dental health.

A:
You have a few cavities. You need to cut down on sugar.
B:
How much should I cut down on sweets?
A:
Cut down on sweets as much as you can, especially between meals.
B:
Should I stop drinking fizzy drinks completely?
A:
Try to cut down on fizzy drinks and drink water instead.
B:
Thank you, I will follow your advice.

Vocabulary

Sugar
A sweet substance found in many foods and drinks.
Example: Cut down on sugar to keep your teeth healthy.
Synonym: Sweetener
Cavities
Damaged areas in teeth caused by decay.
Example: Brushing well helps prevent cavities.
Synonym: Tooth decay
Fizzy drinks
Sweet, carbonated beverages like soda.
Example: Cut down on fizzy drinks to avoid tooth problems.
Synonym: Soda
Dentist
A doctor who cares for teeth and gums.
Example: Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups.
Synonym: Dental doctor
Snack
A small amount of food eaten between meals.
Example: Cut down on snacks that have sugar.
Synonym: Light meal
Decay
The process of rotting or being destroyed.
Example: Sugar causes tooth decay.
Synonym: Deterioration
Advice
Suggestions about what to do.
Example: The dentist gave advice to cut down on sugar.
Synonym: Recommendation
Healthy
Good for your body or mind.
Example: Eating less sugar keeps your teeth healthy.
Synonym: Well
Habit
Something you do often without thinking.
Example: Make a habit of brushing your teeth twice a day.
Synonym: Routine
Water
A clear, healthy drink without sugar.
Example: Drink water instead of sugary drinks.
Synonym: H2O

Tips

  • Use 'cut down on' to give polite but clear advice.
  • Remember to omit 'you' in imperative sentences for direct commands.
  • Don't confuse 'cut down on' with 'cut off' — they have different meanings.

Summary

In this lesson, you learned how to use the phrasal verb 'cut down on' in imperatives to give advice about reducing sugar intake. You also practised using it in realistic dentist situations to help protect your teeth.

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