cut (one) some slack

To allow one more latitude or freedom than usual; to be lenient with one. Oh, you know I never make requests like this, cut me some slack. A: "I can't believe she talked to me like that!" B: "You need to cut her some slack—she's grieving right now."

cut someone some slack

INFORMAL

If you cut someone some slack, you are less critical of their behaviour or performance than usual because you know they are in a difficult situation. When you're new at a job, colleagues and bosses cut you some slack. They forgive minor mistakes because you're new. Note: This expression is variable. Instead of some, people sometimes use words such as a little or a lot of. She's still upset about her dad. Cut her a little slack.

cut someone some slack

allow someone some leeway; make allowances for someone's behaviour. North American informal

1998 Times Most, though, are willing to cut Spielberg some slack for the sake of cinematic interpretation.

cut somebody some ˈslack

(informal, especially American English) make things easier than usual for somebody; allow somebody more freedom to do things than they would normally have: I know I made a mistake, but it’s my first week on the job, so cut me some slack, OK?

cut someone some slack

verb

See cut someone a break