The phrase "cuts the cheese" is typically slang for passing gas or otherwise expelling flatulence. However, there are many other ways to refer to this bodily function that are slightly less crass. Some synonyms for "cuts the cheese" might include "letting one rip," "breaking wind," "passing gas," "farting," "tooting," "fluffing," and "letting the wind out of one's sails." While these phrases may still be considered somewhat unsavory by some, they are generally less vulgar and may be more appropriate in polite company. Regardless of how one refers to this function, it remains a natural and necessary part of the human digestive process.